Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management

02/06/2026

𝐆𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐍𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐇𝐄𝐋𝐏𝐒 𝐄𝐗𝐏𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐑𝐔𝐑𝐀𝐋 𝐁𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑𝐘 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐈𝐍 𝐁𝐔𝐀

𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐀 - A retired couple from Naruwai Village in the district of Dama, Bua are looking forward to growing their bakery business and better serving communities across the province following the handover of new bakery equipment from the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management.

The owners of Three T's Bakery today received a full set of commercial bakery equipment from the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮, made possible under the Ministry's 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟 - 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 (𝐒𝐇𝐏)

Funded at a cost of more than $20,000, the project aims to strengthen rural entrepreneurship, improve food accessibility, and create sustainable income opportunities for families in rural communities.

Established in 2024, Three T's Bakery started from humble beginnings, producing bread and buns using only three 25-kilogram bags of flour. What began as a small family enterprise has since grown into a thriving rural business, driven by the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of its owners. The bakery now serves communities across Bua, stretching from Nasarawaqa to Kubulau, helping meet the growing demand for fresh and affordable baked products throughout the province.

However, despite growing demand, the bakery faced significant challenges due to limited equipment capacity.

Bakery owner Mrs. Alanieta Loga said the support from Government came at a critical time for the business.

"When we started the bakery, we only had one set of baking equipment, and we did everything with very limited resources. As demand for our bread and buns increased, it became difficult for us to keep up with customer orders," Ms. Loga said.

"There were times when we worked long hours just to ensure that communities received their bread supplies. We knew there was potential to grow the business, but we needed the right equipment to do so."

Mrs. Loga said the assistance would significantly improve production and efficiency.

"This support will allow us to increase our production, improve the quality of our products, and serve more communities across Bua. We are grateful to the Government and the Ministry for believing in small rural businesses like ours."

"As retirees, this bakery has become our livelihood and a way of serving our communities. We hope to continue growing the business and create opportunities for others in the village."

Speaking during the handover ceremony, Hon. Bulitavu said supporting rural entrepreneurs remained an important part of Government's commitment to strengthening local economies and creating sustainable livelihoods.

"The success of rural development is not measured only by roads, bridges or buildings. It is also measured by the ability of our people to create businesses, generate income and improve their quality of life," Hon. Bulitavu said.

Minister Bulitavu said Three T's Bakery was an example of how determination and entrepreneurship could contribute to community development.

"This retired couple saw an opportunity to provide a valuable service to their people and turned that vision into a successful business. Today, Government is proud to support their efforts through the Self-Help Programme."

"This investment will not only benefit the owners of the bakery. It will benefit the many families and communities that rely on their products every day. It also demonstrates how strategic investments in rural enterprises can stimulate economic activity and keep income circulating within our rural communities."

The Naruwai Village Bakery Project was implemented under the Ministry's Self-Help Programme in partnership with the community and suppliers, with the new equipment expected to boost production capacity and support the bakery's continued growth across the Province of Bua.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

02/06/2026

𝐁𝐔𝐀 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐄𝐍𝐉𝐎𝐘 𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐍 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐀𝐅𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐀𝐍 𝟓𝟎 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑𝐒

𝐋𝐀𝐁𝐀𝐒𝐀 - After more than five decades of relying on a nearby spring as their primary source of water, the residents of Nabuna Settlement in Lekutu, Bua can now enjoy access to clean, safe and reliable drinking water following the completion of a new water supply project funded by Government.

The Nabuna Settlement Water Project, implemented under the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management's 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐟 - 𝐇𝐞𝐥𝐩 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞 (𝐒𝐇𝐏), was officially commissioned by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮, in Bua today.

Funded at a cost of more than $19,000, the project benefits 16 households and more than 40 people, including 21 children and 25 adults.

For generations, residents depended on a natural spring located some distance from their homes, often making daily trips to collect water for drinking, cooking and household use. During periods of heavy rain, access to the spring became difficult, while dry spells often affected water availability.

Nabuna Settlement Water Committee President Mr. Joji Dua said the project marked a historic milestone for the community.

"For more than 50 years, our families depended on the spring for our daily water needs. It was a routine that many generations grew up with, carrying water back to our homes every day," Mr. Dua said.

"There were times when accessing the spring was challenging, especially during bad weather. For our elderly residents and children, the task was even harder. Today, we are grateful because our people now have access to clean water close to their homes."

"This project has brought real change to our lives. On behalf of the people of Nabuna Village, I sincerely thank the Government and the Ministry for listening to our needs and helping make this long-awaited dream a reality."

Speaking at the commissioning, Hon. Bulitavu said access to safe and reliable water remained one of the most fundamental necessities for healthy and resilient communities.

"Water is life. It is essential for our health, our livelihoods, our children's education and the overall well-being of our communities. No family should have to struggle daily to access clean drinking water," Hon. Bulitavu said.

"This investment may seem modest in cost, but its impact on the lives of the people of Nabuna is significant and far-reaching. It will improve health outcomes, reduce the burden on women and children who often bear the responsibility of fetching water, and provide greater dignity and convenience for every household."

Hon. Bulitavu highlighted that the project aligned with the Ministry's mission of promoting inclusive and resilient rural development through practical, community-driven initiatives.

"Through the Self-Help Programme, Government continues to partner directly with communities to address their most pressing needs. These projects are not only about infrastructure; they are about empowering communities, improving living standards and creating opportunities for sustainable development."

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

01/06/2026

𝐖𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐖𝐀𝐂𝐈 𝐑𝐇𝐀 𝐏𝐑𝐎𝐉𝐄𝐂𝐓 📍

The Government, through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, continues to improve the quality of life for families in rural and maritime communities through the 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 (𝐑𝐇𝐀) 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞.

This week, our Rural Housing teams are on the ground in Waciwaci Village, Lakeba, Lau, progressing construction works on five new homes funded under Scheme 3 of the RHA Programme.

Scheme 3 is specifically designed to support timber resource owners, including those under pine schemes, native tree resource owners, and lease beneficiary holders. Under this arrangement, beneficiaries are able to use their timber resources as their one-third contribution towards the construction of their homes, making home ownership more affordable and accessible for rural and maritime families.

The Rural Housing Assistance Programme provides safe, secure, and resilient housing solutions for vulnerable families. Beyond providing shelter, the programme contributes to improved health and wellbeing, strengthens family security, and enhances the overall standard of living for recipients.

Once completed, these homes will provide beneficiary families with safe and comfortable places to live in.

28/05/2026

𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐘 𝐁𝐈𝐃𝐒 𝐅𝐀𝐑𝐄𝐖𝐄𝐋𝐋 𝐓𝐎 𝐓𝐖𝐎 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐅𝐅 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐒

𝐒𝐔𝐕𝐀 - The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, today, bid farewell to two valued members of its team, Director Development Services Ms. Arieta Dimuri and Senior Accounts Officer Ms. Reteshni Raj, during a special staff gathering led by Minister - 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 at the Ministry Headquarters in Suva.

Speaking during the farewell, Hon. Bulitavu paid tribute to Ms. Dimuri for her exceptional leadership and strategic direction over the past eight years as Director Development Services. He highlighted her key role in advancing major Ministry initiatives, including the establishment of the Gov4Res partnership with UNDP, the formulation of the Ministry’s first-ever 10-Year Strategic Development Plan, and ongoing work towards the National Rural Development Policy (NRDP).

Hon. Bulitavu also acknowledged Ms. Dimuri’s contributions to strengthening accountability, efficiency, and service delivery through the review of the Integrated Rural Development Framework (IRDF) and improvements to standard operating procedures for capital projects.

Minister Bulitavu also thanked Ms. Raj for her dedicated service and professionalism, noting the important role finance officers played in ensuring Government programmes and projects were implemented effectively and responsibly.

Hon. Bulitavu wished both officers success and happiness as they embark on new chapters in their respective journeys, while encouraging staff members to continue upholding the values of service, leadership, and commitment to nation-building.

Ms. Dimuri departs the Ministry following her retirement from the civil service, while Ms. Raj will take up a new role with the Ministry of Environment.

Meanwhile, today's gathering also coincided with the Ministry’s commemoration of Ratu Sukuna Day, with staff reflecting on the enduring legacy of leadership and service of the late Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

26/05/2026

25/05/2026

NABAVATU 📍

Works on the Nabavatu Relocation Project are well in progress.

▶️ Here’s a glimpse of work being completed so far ⬇️

24/05/2026

take heed of the advisory ⬇️ issued by the Fiji NDRMO📌

🚨PUBLIC ADVISORY 📍

🚨Heavy Rain Alert in force for whole of Fiji Group

🚫 STAY AWAY & REFRAIN from attempting to cross flooded rivers, crossings, walkways, etc

🚨Exercise caution & prioritise safety

✅ Read more ⬇️

23/05/2026

𝐍𝐀𝐕𝐎𝐒𝐀📍

The construction works on the Nasaucoko Access Road are now nearing completion, marking a major milestone for the people of Nasaucoko and surrounding communities in the Namataku District, deep within the rugged highlands of Navosa.

This new road infrastructure will provide a vital connection between the highlands of Sigatoka and the Nausori highlands, significantly improving accessibility and making travel to Nadi much easier for residents, farmers, and businesses.

Funded under the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐬𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 (𝐑𝐎𝐈) 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐦𝐞, this project spans more than 12 kilometres and was carried out in two phases at a total cost of more than $400,000.

This important development is expected to boost connectivity, economic opportunities, and access to essential services for communities in the interior. The completed road will officially be commissioned in few weeks’ time.

23/05/2026

𝐇𝐎𝐍. 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐒𝐔𝐕𝐀 𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐁𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐏𝐄𝐓𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐎𝐍

𝐒𝐔𝐕𝐀 - Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 officially opened the Suva Netball Association Knockout Competition in Suva today, calling on young people to use sports as a pathway towards discipline, leadership, and positive living.

The competition has attracted 16 women’s teams and 8 men’s teams, reflecting the growing interest and talent in netball within communities around Fiji.

While officiating at the opening ceremony, Hon. Bulitavu commended the Suva Netball Association for its continued commitment to developing young athletes and creating opportunities for women and youths through sports.

“Today is not only about competition and winning trophies. It is also about unity, discipline, teamwork, respect, and creating opportunities for our young people through sports,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

He acknowledged the important role sports played in empowering young people, particularly women and girls, by building confidence, leadership, discipline, and self-respect.

“Sports is a powerful tool for empowerment. It keeps our young people active, focused, and connected to positive environments,” he said.

Hon. Bulitavu also highlighted the success of players who have progressed from local competitions to representing Fiji at the national level, including the Under-21 and National Teams.

“To our young players gathered here today, your journey starts with competitions like this. Every training session, every game, and every challenge helps prepare you for greater opportunities in the future. Some of you may one day proudly wear Fiji colours on the international stage."

Minister Bulitavu also used the opportunity to encourage young people to make positive choices in life, particularly as Fiji continues to face growing social challenges.

“At a time when Fiji is facing serious challenges such as the growing HIV crisis and the increasing use of drugs among our youths, gatherings like this become even more important. Sports can help protect our young people by giving them purpose, healthy lifestyles, and positive friendships."

He further encouraged youths to remain focused on education, sports, and their future aspirations while staying away from drugs and negative influences.

Hon. Bulitavu also thanked the Suva Netball Association, sponsors, volunteers, officials, coaches, referees, and supporters for their efforts in organising the tournament and supporting the development of netball in Fiji.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-

22/05/2026

𝐅𝐍𝐔 𝐍𝐀𝐁𝐔𝐀 𝐑𝐔𝐆𝐁𝐘 𝐓𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐄𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐒 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐋𝐘 𝐁𝐎𝐎𝐒𝐓 𝐅𝐑𝐎𝐌 𝐇𝐎𝐍. 𝐁𝐔𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐕𝐔

𝐒𝐔𝐕𝐀 - Minister for 𝐑𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 - 𝐇𝐨𝐧. 𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐯𝐮 officially handed over a new set of sports jerseys to the Fiji National University Nabua Campus Rugby Team in Suva last night, ahead of the upcoming FNU Intercampus Games.

The support reflects Government’s continued commitment to empowering youths through sports, education, and community development initiatives. The FNU Intercampus Games provide an important platform for young people to strengthen discipline, teamwork, leadership, and healthy competition outside the classroom environment.

Speaking during the handover, Hon. Bulitavu highlighted the important role sports played in shaping responsible young leaders and promoting positive lifestyles among youths.

“Sports create opportunities for our young people to stay focused, disciplined, and connected to positive values. It also plays an important role in steering youths away from social issues such as drugs and crime by encouraging active and meaningful engagement,” Hon. Bulitavu said.

Members of the rugby team expressed their sincere appreciation to Hon. Bulitavu for supporting their participation in the competition and investing in youth development.

“This is the first time we have sought assistance from Government, and we sincerely thank the Hon. Minister for hearing our voice and supporting our team. What he has done for us today is something we will always cherish,” said Aisake Bulameicavai, the FNU Derrick Campus Student Residential Assistant.

The jerseys were personally sponsored by Hon. Bulitavu as part of his ongoing support for youth initiatives, grassroots sports development, and community wellbeing.

-𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐒-