The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development is actively engaging with various stakeholders to formulate a new National Rural Development Policy (NRDP), recognizing that existing frameworks are inadequate for the evolving needs of rural communities. During a recent consultation in the Eastern Division, Minister Sakiasi Ditoka highlighted the necessity of revitalizing the approach to rural development, citing limitations in coordination and implementation as key issues.
The previous Integrated Rural Development Framework, established in 2009, laid a solid groundwork but has revealed certain gaps, particularly in the context of emerging technologies, climate risks, and systemic governmental challenges. Minister Ditoka emphasized the need for a more robust policy that better addresses these contemporary challenges faced by rural regions.
Community engagement is central to the policy’s development. Ditoka outlined a collaborative process involving traditional leaders, governmental bodies, civil society, academic institutions, and international partners. By involving a wide variety of voices, the policy aims to reflect the diverse needs and experiences of communities across Fiji.
The Minister specifically pointed out the ongoing struggles of communities in regions such as Rotuma, Lau, Lomaiviti, and Kadavu, where issues like isolation, high transport and energy costs, and limited access to services and markets persist. He stressed that addressing these challenges is vital to enhance the effectiveness of rural development strategies.
In line with the review of the Integrated Rural Development Framework, the new policy will prioritize a people-first, community-centered approach. Minister Ditoka urged participants to contribute openly and share their insights, both positive and negative, which will be instrumental in shaping a more inclusive, connected, and coordinated system for rural development that avoids duplicative efforts and promotes synergy among different sectors.
The ongoing two-day consultation features diverse representation from government agencies, state-owned enterprises, the private sector, civil society, faith-based organizations, and local communities, all contributing their perspectives to Fiji’s first National Rural Development Policy. This collaborative effort signifies a hopeful step towards a more responsive and effective framework for rural development, ensuring that the voices of those most impacted are heard and considered in the decision-making process.