The development of rural and maritime areas in Fiji is being emphasized as a national obligation, according to the newly appointed Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Mosese Bulitavu. Taking office this week following a ministerial reshuffle, Bulitavu highlighted the importance of engaging with rural communities as a starting point for his tenure.
Speaking at a multi-stakeholder consultation event on the national rural development policy at the Fiji Football Academy in Labasa, Bulitavu expressed, “There is no more meaningful way to begin this journey than by listening, building partnerships, and shaping the future of rural and maritime Fiji together.” He stressed the vital role these communities play in Fiji’s identity, economy, and overall resilience, noting their deep connections to natural resources, food systems, culture, and traditional governance.
Bulitavu made it clear that supporting these communities extends beyond a policy obligation—it is a core national responsibility. The consultation is part of the initiative to create Fiji’s first comprehensive national rural development policy, which is intended to serve as the central framework for government strategies and enhance the coordination and delivery of development initiatives in rural and outer island communities.
The minister emphasized that the new policy aims to foster collaboration across various ministries, prioritize funding strategically, and effectively measure development outcomes. He pointed out its essential role as a guiding tool for his ministry’s work in the long run while tackling ongoing challenges faced in rural regions. Through the implementation of this policy, the Fijian government aspires to ensure that national strategies reflect the realities experienced at the local level, thereby promoting a more nuanced and effective approach to development.
This initiative not only signals a commitment to improving rural and maritime living standards but also reinforces the importance of community voices in shaping a sustainable future for Fiji.