Rural and maritime communities are reaping significant benefits from the Prime Minister’s Small Grant Scheme, which has successfully completed over 180 projects aimed at enhancing livelihoods, infrastructure, and essential services. Sakiusa Tubuna, Assistant Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister, indicated that the program is shifting focus from welfare-style support to encouraging community-led development initiatives.
The Central Division received the majority of the funding, with 94 projects, while the Eastern Division followed with 36, the Northern Division with 31, and the Western Division with 23 implementations. Projects completed under this scheme include renovations of classrooms, improvements in school furniture, and the construction of teacher’s quarters and ablution blocks.
“These initiatives have addressed a variety of development needs,” Tubuna remarked, underscoring the project’s alignment with educational enhancements and community infrastructure improvements. The next phase of the program aims to prioritize women’s and youth entrepreneurship, renewable energy projects, and rural enterprises.
In a move towards sustainability and local empowerment, the government encourages communities to actively participate in project implementations and share the financial responsibility for these initiatives.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasized the scheme’s role in reflecting the government’s commitment to promoting inclusive growth. He also proposed integrating drug education and awareness into community infrastructure projects, especially in the construction of facilities such as community and church halls.
The ongoing Small Grant Scheme is seen as a pivotal effort to empower Fijians, enabling communities to take responsibility for driving meaningful improvements in their regions. This initiative aligns with previous funding efforts that have aimed to uplift marginalized groups and enhance community cohesion, fostering a hopeful path toward a more inclusive and resilient society. As these initiatives progress, they lay the groundwork for long-term advancements in both community infrastructure and social solidarity across Fiji’s diverse communities.