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Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management

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Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management

"Inclusive Development for Productive, Sustainable and Resilient Rural Communities" The Ministry is also responsible for Disaster Risk Management.
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The Ministry of Rural & Maritime Development and Disaster Management is mandated to establish an Integrated Development Structure at Divisional level to effectively manage the coordination and implementation of development in Fiji's rural sector in line with the national direction of the Government for Rural and Outer Islands Development. In doing so, the Ministry is responsible for the establishm

ent of Divisional Development Boards and Provincial Development Boards which will be the consultative and planning forums for development in the rural areas. The Ministry will align to the intent of the Government to promote growth, reduce poverty and address rural to urban drift through the provision of basic social amenities and incentives for increasing incomes from farming and marine resources. The role of the Ministry is to oversee the overall achievement of its vision - "A Better Fiji for All" through building the Integrated Rural Development Framework for productive, progressive, safe and resilient communities in Fiji. This approach will encourage the increased contribution of rural economies to the export sector by improving land utilization and infrastructure development, as well as encouraging domestic production for food security and import substitution.

25/06/2026

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔 𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃𝐒 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐀 𝐒𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐀𝐓 𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐓𝐀

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 – Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 held a Talanoa session with community members of Lopta Village in the district of Oinafa, Rotuma, providing a platform for open dialogue between Government and the community.

The engagement was part of Minister Bulitavu’s two-day official visit to Rotuma and allowed villagers to directly raise issues, concerns, and development priorities affecting their community and the wider island.

During the session, community members discussed a range of matters relating to Government service delivery, infrastructure development, transportation, agriculture, fisheries, education, and other key issues impacting livelihoods and community wellbeing.

Hon. Bulitavu acknowledged the concerns raised and emphasised the importance of maintaining strong communication between Government and rural and maritime communities to ensure that development initiatives were responsive to the needs of the people.

Tonight’s talanoa session provided a valuable opportunity for Government to listen directly to communities and better understand the various challenges they faced.

“Development is most effective when communities have a voice in the process. These engagements allow us to hear directly from the people, understand their priorities, and ensure that Government programmes and services are aligned with the realities on the ground,” he added.

Joining Hon. Bulitavu during the Talanoa session were Commissioner Eastern Division Mr. Vitale Varo, District Officer (DO) Rotuma Mr. Luke Savu, and members of an inter-agency Government team currently on the island as part of this week’s visit.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

25/06/2026

𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐁𝐎𝐀𝐓 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐔𝐓𝐔𝐓𝐔 𝐅𝐈𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐌𝐀𝐍'𝐒 𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 – Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 handed over a fibreglass boat and outboard engine to Ututu fisherman, Mr Fesaitu Petero, in the district of Noa’tau, Rotuma.

The assistance, valued at more than $23,000, was delivered under the Ministry’s 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐟𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 (𝐒𝐄𝐀) 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 and is aimed at strengthening fishing operations and supporting income-generating opportunities for maritime communities.

Speaking during the handover, Hon. Bulitavu said the SEA Programme continued to play a critical role in empowering rural and maritime fishers with the tools they need to improve productivity and livelihoods.

“This support is part of Government’s ongoing commitment to strengthen seafaring livelihoods in our maritime communities. We want to ensure that our fishermen have safe, reliable, and efficient equipment so they can improve their catch, increase their income, and support their families,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

In receiving the assistance on behalf of his father, Mr Donovan Whippy expressed gratitude to the Government, noting the positive impact the equipment will have on their fishing activities.

“The challenge we used to face on the island is that sometimes we had to rely on a canoe or even swim during bad weather just to go out fishing. Now, with the boat and engine, I know my dad will be very happy because he will be able to fish safely along the coastlines and even outside the reef,” Mr Whippy said.

“I would like to thank the Government for this assistance. I know it is not easy to receive such support for us in the islands and we are truly grateful that my father has been given this opportunity.”

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

25/06/2026

𝐇𝐎𝐍. 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐌 𝐑𝐎𝐀𝐃𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 - Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 commissioned three new farm roads across the districts of Itumuta, Itu’tiu, and Juju in Rotuma today, delivering improved access for farmers under the Government’s ongoing commitment to rural infrastructure development.

The combined investment of more than $85,000 has been channelled through the Ministry’s 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐝𝐬, 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐛𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐠𝐞𝐬 (𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐅𝐅) 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞, supporting improved connectivity and easier access to agricultural areas.

In Itumuta, a 60-metre two-strip concrete farm road was constructed at a cost of more than $19,5000. The new access route is expected to significantly improve mobility for farmers transporting produce and accessing farmland.

In Tuakoi Village in the district of Itu’tiu, Government invested over $15,300 for the construction of an 80-metre two-strip concrete farm road, aimed at strengthening farm access and supporting agricultural productivity in the area.

Itu’tiu District representative Mr. Jione Epasio expressed gratitude to the Government, saying the improved road would greatly assist farmers in getting their farm produces to the market.

“We have around 20 farmers that use this farm road. Previously, farmers faced a lot of challenges in bringing their crops to the main road for export, but with this assistance from the Government, they will be able to have easier access to the markets to sell their produce to support their families and children’s education,” said Mr. Epasio.

Meanwhile, in Juju District, a major 1.5-kilometre two-strip concrete farm road was completed at a cost of more than $50,000, providing a vital transport link for farming communities and improving year-round access to agricultural land.

Juju District representative Mr. Sa’au Injimo said around 26 farmers used the newly commissioned farm road to get to their farms.

“Before, the farm road was in a very poor state. It was more like a trek, and most trucks would not travel up. We often had to carry our produce on our backs just to reach the main road. This road was originally built by our forefathers more than 60 years ago, and this is the first time Government has stepped in to significantly improve it,” he said.

He said the upgraded access has already begun to ease transportation challenges and boost agricultural activity.

“We are truly grateful to Government for this assistance. Trucks and motorbikes can now travel up the farm road with ease. We expect to see increased copra production, as well as higher harvests of dalo, cassava, yams, and other root crops being transported to markets,” Mr Injimo added.

Speaking during the project commissioning, Hon. Bulitavu reaffirmed Government’s commitment to strengthening rural and maritime livelihoods through targeted infrastructure investments that directly supported food security and economic participation in remote communities.

He said improved farm roads were critical enablers of rural development, allowing farmers to reduce post-harvest losses, improve market access, and expand production.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

25/06/2026

𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐒𝐔𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒 𝐒𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐀’𝐀𝐑𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 - The provision of new baking equipment and a motorbike to Santa’Aro Bakery in Ahau, Rotuma is expected to boost business and productivity for the bakery.

Earlier today, Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 commissioned the Olsen Bakery Project, funded under the Ministry’s 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟 - 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 (𝐒𝐇𝐏).

Santa’Aro Bakery owner, Mr. Aisea Sauriaki Olsen, established the business in 2019 as a home-based operation in Itumuta with only a small baking oven. Through dedication and hard work, the bakery has steadily expanded its operations and now serves communities across Rotuma.

Through this assistance from Government, the bakery received a new commercial baking oven, generator, aluminium baking tables, bread slicer, and a motorbike to support bread deliveries around the island. The assistance is expected to significantly improve productivity, increase efficiency, and strengthen the bakery’s ability to meet growing customer demand.

Mr. Olsen acknowledged the Government’s support, saying that the assistance has already made a positive difference to the business.

“I’d like to thank the Government for the assistance rendered to our bakery. It has been very helpful and has allowed us to employ additional staff who have come in to help increase our productivity,” said Mr. Olsen.

“Before this assistance, we only had one motorbike for deliveries. If it broke down or had a punctured tyre, it affected our ability to distribute bread to customers across the island. The new motorbike will ensure that we can continue reaching communities throughout Rotuma with our products. We are grateful to the Government for this timely support, which will help us improve our service and grow our business.”

Speaking during the project commissioning, Hon. Bulitavu said the Government remained committed to empowering rural and maritime entrepreneurs by investing in initiatives that created sustainable livelihoods and stimulated local economic growth.

“The Self-Help Programme is designed to support hardworking individuals and community groups who are committed to improving their livelihoods. By providing the necessary tools and equipment, we are enabling businesses such as Santa’Aro Bakery to expand their operations, create employment opportunities, and contribute to the local economy,” said Hon. Bulitavu.

“When local businesses thrive, communities thrive. This investment will not only improve the bakery’s production capacity but will also enhance access to essential goods and services for the people of Rotuma while creating additional income and employment opportunities for local families.”

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

25/06/2026

𝐍𝐄𝐖 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄 𝐁𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 𝐑𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐄𝐅 𝐓𝐎 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 𝐖𝐈𝐃𝐎𝐖

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 – Years of having to endure the struggles of a leaking shelter during periods of heavy rain is now over for Rotuma widow, Ms. Semantafa Kafoa.

Having lost her husband in 2016, the 65-year-old had been living alone in a traditional thatched bure at Mea Village in the district of Itu’tiu, Rotuma, often relying on the support of others to carry out repairs whenever the weather took its toll on her home.

Today, Ms. Kafoa received the keys to her brand-new home from the Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮.

Ms. Kafoa was assisted by the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management under Scheme 4 of the 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 (𝐑𝐇𝐀) 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞.

Scheme 4 supports social welfare recipients and persons living with disabilities to access safe, secure and dignified housing.

An emotional Ms. Kafoa struggled to contain her joy as she stepped into her new home for the first time.

“I am so happy that I have this new house. Before I used to stay in a Fijian bure and sometimes when it rains, I have problems with my bure,” she recalled.

“When that happens, I would need to look for support to have it fixed for me and it’s not easy because I do not have money to pay a carpenter. Today I am very thankful to the Government for helping me with this new house which will not only improve the way I live but also ensure my safety.”

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Hon. Bulitavu said the Government remained committed to ensuring that vulnerable members of society were not left behind in the nation's development journey.

“No Fijian should have to live in unsafe or inadequate housing, especially our elderly citizens, widows, persons living with disabilities and those who are unable to support themselves financially,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

“The Rural Housing Assistance Programme is about restoring dignity, improving quality of life and providing peace of mind to families and individuals who need support the most. Today, we are not simply handing over a house; we are providing a safe place that Ms. Kafoa can proudly call home.”

The Rural Housing Assistance Programme continues to improve living conditions for vulnerable households in rural and maritime communities, ensuring that those most in need have access to safe and adequate housing.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

24/06/2026

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔 𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐓𝐀𝐋𝐀𝐍𝐎𝐀 𝐖𝐈𝐓𝐇 𝐍𝐎𝐀'𝐓𝐀𝐔 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘

Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 held a talanoa session with community members in the District of Noa'tau, Rotuma, last night as part of his official visit to the island.

The meeting provided an opportunity for Hon. Bulitavu to engage directly with community members and listen firsthand to the issues, concerns, and development priorities of the community.

Discussions focused on a range of matters affecting the district, including infrastructure, service delivery, and economic opportunities, to name a few.

Hon. Bulitavu reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of maritime communities were heard and reflected in development planning and decision-making.

The talanoa session also allowed Minister Bulitavu to provide updates on ongoing Government programmes and projects aimed at improving the livelihoods and well-being of the people of Rotuma.

Today, Hon. Bulitavu will continue his programme on the island with the commissioning of several key Government-funded projects in the districts of Juju and Itumuta. He will later visit Lopta this evening, where he is scheduled to meet with community members and local leaders to discuss development priorities and also hear directly from the community on issues affecting their district.

The engagements are part of Minister Bulitavu’s commitment to maintaining close dialogue with communities and ensuring that Government interventions are responsive to local needs and aspirations.

24/06/2026

𝐓𝐀𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐈𝐀 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐒 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐌 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐈𝐇𝐎𝐎𝐃𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 – Tamania Homestay in Lopta, Rotuma is set to welcome more guests following the commissioning of its dining area extension and facelift project by the Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭, 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮, today.

Opened in 2021 by elderly couple, Mr. Vilsoni Garisau Epeli and his wife, Mrs. Navatonu Tonu, the Tamania Homestay was recently a recipient of assistance offered by the Ministry of 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 under its 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟 - 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 (𝐒𝐇𝐏).

The project, funded at a cost of $20,000 by Government, involved the extension of the existing homestay structure to increase accommodation capacity and improve visitor facilities. With the upgrade now completed, Tamania Homestay can accommodate around 20 guests, strengthening its ability to support growing local tourism demand.

Speaking during the project commissioning, Mr. Epeli expressed deep gratitude for the Government’s support, saying the development has brought new hope to their family business.

“We never imagined our small homestay would grow to this level. This assistance has lifted a heavy burden off our shoulders,” Mr. Epeli said.

“This expansion means more income for our family, but more importantly, it allows us to contribute to our community and support others through small jobs and services. This is our home and our livelihood. We are thankful that Government saw our effort and believed in what we are trying to build here in Lopta.”

Minister Bulitavu commended the couple for their dedication and resilience in building a locally owned tourism business that directly benefitted their community.

“Tamania Homestay is a strong example of what happens when local initiative is supported with the right assistance. It shows how small businesses in our maritime communities can grow and thrive,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

He added that Government remained committed to supporting grassroots economic development through programmes such as the Self-Help Programme, which directly empowered families and small entrepreneurs.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

24/06/2026

𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐌𝐒 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐈𝐓𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐈𝐍𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐔𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄, 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐄𝐒, 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐎𝐌𝐈𝐂 𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀

𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀 – Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to improving essential infrastructure, strengthening service delivery, and expanding economic opportunities for the people of Rotuma.

In addressing the Rotuma Island Council during a meeting in Itumuta today, Hon. Bulitavu outlined Government’s development agenda for Rotuma, anchored on three key pillars. These includes strengthening critical infrastructure, improving essential services, and promoting economic empowerment and community development.

Hon. Bulitavu highlighted the importance of reliable sea and land transport links, noting that these were critical for the movement of people, goods, and services in Rotuma. He acknowledged the challenges facing the current wharf and jetty, explaining that disruptions to maritime access have direct impacts on supply chains, food security, and the cost of living on the island. He said options were being explored by the Ministry to strengthen and future-proof maritime infrastructure, including the possible relocation of the jetty to a safer and more sustainable site.

He addressed inland road connectivity, recalling last year’s severe disruptions that led to a month-long closure of schools. He confirmed that the Fiji Roads Authority has allocated more than $5.1 million in the current budget year for the upgrade of the 35km Circular Road, ensuring continued access and safety while longer-term maintenance planning is undertaken.

Hon. Bulitavu also highlighted ongoing maintenance work on the electricity grid from Ahau to Feavai, valued at $322,000 and currently 50 per cent complete.

Hon. Bulitavu further noted progress in disaster preparedness and community safety, including the 70 per cent completion of the Lopta Evacuation Centre Retrofitting Project and upcoming rural housing support for a family in No’atau.

Supporting economic growth and income generation remains a key priority, with Hon. Bulitavu outlining a range of Government initiatives aimed at empowering local communities and strengthening livelihoods.

Hon. Bulitavu also stressed the importance of balancing modern development with cultural preservation, stating that traditional knowledge and values must continue to guide progress in Rotuma.

“Modernity and tradition are not opposing forces. Development must serve the people without eroding the cultural identity that makes Rotuma unique,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

He concluded the meeting by calling for stronger cooperation between Government and the Rotuma Island Council to ensure development is effectively implemented and based on mutual respect and shared goals.

Meanwhile, Minister Bulitavu and the accompanying Government teams were also accorded a traditional welcome in a “Mamasa” ceremony prior to the Council meeting.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

24/06/2026

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔 𝐌𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐓 𝐎𝐅𝐅𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐈𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐑𝐎𝐓𝐔𝐌𝐀

Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮, arrived in Rotuma today for his first official visit to the island since assuming office, travelling onboard an Australian Air Force flight.

The two-day visit highlights the Coalition Government’s commitment to supporting the development aspirations of Rotuma and strengthening engagement with remote maritime communities.

Following his arrival today, Hon. Bulitavu received a comprehensive briefing from District Officer (DO) Rotuma, Mr. Luke Savu, on the state of Government service delivery and ongoing development initiatives on the island. The briefing covered key sectors including infrastructure, education, health, utilities, disaster preparedness, and community development, as well as the challenges and opportunities associated with delivering services in a remote maritime setting.

During his visit to the island this week, Hon. Bulitavu will also commission and inspect several key Government-funded projects aimed at improving infrastructure, housing, community resilience, and economic opportunities for the people of Rotuma. These projects are part of the Government’s ongoing investments to enhance the quality of life of villagers on the island while also supporting sustainable and inclusive development.

Hon. Bulitavu will also meet with members of the Rotuma Island Council, Government officials, and community leaders to discuss priority development needs and ongoing initiatives across the island. The engagement will provide an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between Government and local stakeholders in advancing Rotuma’s development agenda.

As part of his programme, Hon. Bulitavu will visit several villages to meet directly with community members, hear their concerns and aspirations, and gain a firsthand understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities.

23/06/2026

𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐈𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐒 𝐔𝐑𝐆𝐄𝐃 𝐓𝐎 𝐒𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐄 𝐏𝐑𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐂𝐀𝐋 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐏𝐄𝐎𝐏𝐋𝐄-𝐂𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐑𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐃𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐋𝐎𝐏𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐏𝐎𝐋𝐈𝐂𝐘

𝐒𝐔𝐕𝐀 - Participants attending the first day of the 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐜𝐲 (𝐍𝐑𝐃𝐏) Validation Workshop for the Western Division were yesterday reminded of the critical role they played in ensuring the policy evolved into a practical, realistic and implementable framework capable of driving meaningful rural transformation across Fiji.

In opening the two-day validation workshop in Nadi yesterday, Acting Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Mr. Mitieli Cama highlighted the Western Division's significant contribution to Fiji's economy through agriculture, tourism, industry and trade, while acknowledging the development challenges faced by rural communities, including climate risks, infrastructure needs, service delivery gaps, market access constraints and increasing rural-urban pressures.

Mr. Cama said the NRDP was being developed to address these realities by moving away from fragmented and isolated development projects towards a more integrated, coordinated, place-based and people-centred approach.

"The policy is about ensuring that development is not only planned from the centre, but shaped by the voices, priorities and aspirations of our provinces, districts, villages, settlements, communities, private sector, churches, civil society and development partners," Mr Cama said.

The draft policy builds on the review of the 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐅𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 (𝐈𝐑𝐃𝐅) 𝟐𝟎𝟎𝟗, which provided important lessons on what has worked, what has not, and what changes are needed to improve rural development outcomes.

The review highlighted the importance of stronger coordination across government, better integration of rural and urban planning, increased use of evidence and local knowledge, stronger community participation, and risk-informed development in the face of climate change and disasters.

Mr Cama said the new policy recognised that rural development extended beyond infrastructure delivery and must also focus on economic empowerment, livelihoods, cooperatives, value chains, youth opportunities, women's participation, climate resilience, digital connectivity, access to services and stronger local governance.

He stressed that the NRDP represented a shift from business-as-usual and aimed to support rural communities to become more self-reliant, productive and resilient.

For the Western Division, he said, the policy presented opportunities to better connect communities with growth sectors such as agriculture, sugar, tourism, fisheries, micro, small and medium enterprises, renewable energy, rural industries, transport connectivity and disaster resilience.

He encouraged participants to provide honest and constructive feedback on the draft policy, identify gaps, strengthen policy proposals and help ensure that the final document served as an effective framework for planning, budgeting, coordination, implementation and monitoring.

Mr. Cama also urged participants to consider whether the policy reflected the development needs of the Western Division, provided a clear pathway for integrated rural development, strengthened coordination among stakeholders, empowered communities to shape their own development priorities and, most importantly, improved the lives and livelihoods of rural people.

He reiterated that rural development was ultimately about people and creating opportunities for rural Fijians to live with dignity, security and purpose within their communities.

Mr. Cama also thanked participants for their commitment to the process and called on all stakeholders to work together in the spirit of partnership and national service to ensure the successful development and implementation of the NRDP.

The Western Division Validation Workshop is part of a series of nationwide consultative process being undertaken by the 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 to finalise the National Rural Development Policy before its completion and implementation.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

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