The Eastern Division in Fiji has launched an important national consultation initiative for the National Rural Development Policy (NRDP), aimed at bolstering development in rural and remote island areas. Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, underscored the significance of these consultations for enhancing the planning and implementation of rural development programs across the country.
During his address, Ditoka highlighted the rich cultural and natural resources of communities in regions such as Rotuma, Lau, Lomaiviti, and Kadavu. However, he also pointed out the ongoing challenges these regions confront, including high transportation costs, limited access to markets, vulnerabilities to climate change, and increasing pressures on local livelihoods. He emphasized that tackling these challenges necessitates collaborative efforts and robust partnerships rather than solitary actions.
This workshop is just one component of a wider series of consultations designed to shape the NRDP, which is a vital element of the Change Management Programme and part of the Fiji National Development Plan for 2025 to 2029. The NRDP follows a careful review of the Integrated Rural Development Framework from 2009, which identified essential areas for improvement in coordination and risk management, highlighting the need for a more community-focused strategy.
In his remarks, Ditoka reiterated the necessity of a co-creation approach in the NRDP’s development, emphasizing the importance of community feedback and experiences in the decision-making process. He encouraged attendees to engage openly, ensuring that all voices are heard and that no community is left behind, irrespective of their geographical challenges.
These consultations mark a promising step towards empowering Fiji’s rural communities and enhancing their resilience. They signal a commitment to collaborative engagement, which will be crucial in shaping the future of rural development in the nation. The focus on inclusivity and community input paves the way for transformative changes that could significantly improve the lives of those living in Fiji’s rural and outer island regions.