Traditional leaders in Fiji are rallying behind the launch of the country’s first-ever National Rural Development Policy (NRDP), viewing it as a significant step in addressing the persistent challenges faced by rural and maritime communities. During a recent consultation for the Northern Division, Tui Macuata and former President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere articulated that real development goes beyond merely improving infrastructure and services; it must respect the dignity of individuals, promote self-reliance, and ensure equitable progress for all communities.
Ratu Wiliame reflected on past rural development initiatives, such as the Integrated Rural Development Framework of 2009, which he noted did not adequately address critical issues like access to clean water, reliable transportation, and essential services, especially for areas in Macuata, Bua, and Cakaudrove. He emphasized that the new policy must recognize the importance of land and sea, strengthen social connections, and provide avenues for youth to thrive in their localities.
The former president believes the NRDP has the potential to bring this vision to life by empowering local provinces and districts, improving service delivery, and fostering partnerships that can lead to meaningful advancements at the community level.
This policy reflects a shift towards a more inclusive, community-centric approach that prioritizes collaboration among local communities, traditional leaders, government entities, the private sector, and development partners. Ratu Wiliame highlights the transformative possibilities of the NRDP, which seeks to create sustainable, culturally sensitive, and responsive development initiatives tailored to the unique needs of rural and maritime areas, thus providing a brighter future for generations to come and ensuring they can continue to thrive in their home environments.