In a significant development for grassroots cooperatives, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel reported in parliament that since 2024, mobile and community-based training programs have delivered 81 sessions, impacting over 1,800 participants. These initiatives have focused on essential skills such as governance, financial management, and business operations, empowering cooperatives to enhance their effectiveness and accountability.
Immanuel emphasized that these programs not only save costs but also foster increased community participation by tailoring content to local needs, allowing participants to apply their newfound knowledge immediately. To expand outreach further, the integration of digital platforms, including e-commerce and mobile banking, is being pursued to connect cooperatives with larger markets.
In line with previous efforts to support cooperatives across Fiji, initiatives are also aiming to empower youth and women in leadership roles within these organizations. The commitment to developing cooperative frameworks coincides with recent training programs aimed at enhancing skills in entrepreneurship and sustainability in regions like Narocake and Muana-i-Ra.
The collaborative focus on promoting inclusive economic growth is evident in ongoing government efforts, reflecting a growing recognition of the crucial role cooperatives play in local economies. This holistic approach not only strengthens the cooperatives but also supports a broader movement towards socioeconomic resilience, particularly for women and youth, as they become more involved in cooperative initiatives.
These training sessions and support mechanisms provide a hopeful outlook for the future of cooperatives in Fiji, where shared resources and knowledge can lead to sustainable economic development and community empowerment.