Half of Fiji’s population now lives in urban areas, according to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. He made this statement during the launch of the NaVualiku Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu on Friday.
Mr. Rabuka acknowledged the significant shift in demographics, noting that rural-urban migration is a widespread issue globally. He emphasized the government’s commitment to developing solutions that cater to the needs of the people, regardless of their location.
He urged the attendees to consider the question of whether to encourage people to stay in rural areas and how to support them effectively. The Prime Minister highlighted that the NaVualiku Fiji Tourism Development Program aims to foster development in the communities where people reside.
With half of Fiji’s population under the age of 30 and 63 percent of the Northern Division’s residents in the productive age range of 15 to 64, Mr. Rabuka sees this demographic as a significant opportunity for leveraging the nation’s natural resources and human capital for growth.
The program is centered around the vision of a more prosperous and resilient Fiji. The Prime Minister reaffirmed the government’s intention to transform Vanua Levu into a vibrant tourism destination that encourages economic growth, creates valuable job opportunities, and attracts both local and international investments.
He concluded by stating that the government is dedicated to implementing a comprehensive strategy aimed at elevating the economy, the people, and the nation’s future.