The Tailevu Provincial Council is urging local residents to fully leverage their agricultural lands, fishing zones, and other natural resources to generate sustainable income for their households and the wider province. Chair Semi Matalau emphasized that improving the province’s financial stability relies on more effective management and utilization of these resources.
Matalau reiterated the council’s dedication to collaborating with the government to assist resource owners in realizing their potential. As part of its efforts to strengthen financial resilience, the council is advocating for the revival of Adi Tailevu Day, which will coincide with the provincial council meeting next year. This event aims to foster community unity through traditional contributions, known locally as soli, which would support the council’s administrative operations.
He pointed out that current government grants fall short of covering the increasing demands placed on the council. “The workload is up here, but the government allocation is down here,” Matalau noted. He believes that Adi Tailevu Day would serve as a direct means for the people of Tailevu to aid their province, with all contributions specifically benefiting Tailevu.
Matalau envisions a future where local villages and districts actively manage their own economic growth through independent businesses, reducing reliance on soli contributions. This renewed focus on resource management and community involvement signals a promising shift towards economic self-sufficiency for Tailevu Province.
Moreover, ongoing discussions among local governance and community leaders have highlighted the necessity for improved management of local councils, reflecting continuous efforts to enhance the financial situations of indigenous communities. Government initiatives are currently aimed at boosting economic resilience, empowering local communities, and fostering good governance, supported by substantial funding of $3.2 million designated for rural and outer island development.
This proactive strategy to enhance local governance while actively engaging the community in financial endeavors presents a hopeful opportunity for creating significant economic growth in Tailevu, paving the way for a more prosperous and united community.