Over $200,000 in financial aid has been awarded to four promising applicants through the iTaukei Development Fund Facility, a program aimed at enhancing business development among iTaukei landowners. This announcement was made by Ifereimi Vasu, the Minister for iTaukei Affairs and Chairman of the iTaukei Land Trust Board, during a presentation held recently.
Vasu emphasized that the initiative is focused on unlocking the economic potential of iTaukei communities by providing customized financial assistance. The beneficiaries hail from the provinces of Ba, Bua, and Serua, with their projects covering various sectors, such as tourism, agriculture, eco-tourism, and infrastructural services.
Among the successful projects, Tokatoka Sautorotoro from Ba received $98,283 to improve tourist transportation services through the acquisition of two vehicles. Furthermore, Dama Village Investment in Bua was awarded $100,000 to support road vegetation control efforts, which will facilitate the purchase of a truck and provide essential startup capital. In Serua, Ana Gasaucalayawa was given $20,475 to launch an eco-tourism initiative along the Upper Navua River, while Iosefo Vakalelebula secured $20,412 for agricultural development, which includes establishing a nursery and poultry facility.
On behalf of the recipients, Gasaucalayawa expressed gratitude to the board, highlighting that the initiative opens up valuable opportunities for iTaukei communities to engage in business ventures that promote sustainable livelihoods.
The ongoing commitment of the iTaukei Development Fund Facility to support entrepreneurship and empower iTaukei landowners allows them to participate more effectively in Fiji’s growing economy. This initiative not only nurtures local businesses but also strengthens the community, fostering growth and resilience among iTaukei landowners. By encouraging enterprise development, the program aims to create a brighter economic future for these communities.