The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management has made significant strides in advancing rural infrastructure across Fiji. From January to June 2023, a total of 119 rural road crossings have been completed, with an additional 46 currently in construction. These efforts are part of a broader initiative designed to alleviate rural isolation and enhance access to essential services for various communities.
Minister Sakiasi Ditoka presented these figures in Parliament, highlighting that the community access roads, footpaths, and crossings program aims to connect remote areas to vital services such as schools, healthcare facilities, and markets. Notably, the Western Division accounted for 38 completed crossings, the Central Division 33, the Northern Division 25, and the Eastern Division 23. These totals include a range of infrastructure, from roads and footpaths to footbridges.
Despite these accomplishments, Minister Ditoka pointed out that the ministry lacks a dedicated maintenance budget, indicating that upgrades rely on ongoing community projects where local labor and materials are utilized. This approach ensures sustainability while addressing infrastructure needs.
The minister emphasized the broader impact of these infrastructure initiatives, stating that they not only enhance connectivity but also strengthen rural economies, promote social cohesion, and improve disaster resilience. These projects are crucial for empowering rural inhabitants, providing them with better access to resources and opportunities that can elevate their living standards.
This infrastructure enhancement aligns with the government’s ongoing commitment to invest in rural connectivity, as seen in other recent projects that have transformed lives by improving safety and accessibility. The hope is that such efforts will inspire similar advancements throughout Fiji, creating a future where rural communities are safer, more connected, and prosperous.
Overall, the continued focus on improving rural infrastructure is a testament to the government’s dedication to uplifting the lives of its citizens, ensuring that even the most isolated areas benefit from development and support.