A family-owned logging business is the new recipient of a 12-wheeler truck valued at $195,000 that is envisaged to enhance their operational capacity, bridge logistical gaps in timber and resource transportation, and stimulate economic activity.
The Noibuli Investment team received this asset from the Government last Thursday (14/5/26), under the Integrated Human Resource Development Programme (IHRDP) – a flagship initiative designed to empower grassroots businesses across the country.
Noibuli Investment is a locally owned and operated sole proprietorship by Iliavi Haru Naorodei, and is based at Nawaicoba in the Nadroga/Navosa province.
Mr Naorodei has 14 years of operational experience and the business has established a robust reputation as a reliable contractor for Fiji Pine Limited, specialising in sustainable timber extraction and logistical services. Recognising this need, the Government – through the IHRDP – partnered with Merchant Finance to support the acquisition of the logging truck; of which Government contributed $130,000 and the business contributed $65,000.
Officiating at the handover ceremony, Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachida Nand said this reflected the Government’s steadfast commitment to fostering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
“Today, we celebrate the success of that partnership. This outcome demonstrates exactly what the IHRDP is designed to achieve. It is not a handout scheme, but a partnership model in which Government works alongside entrepreneurs who are prepared to invest in themselves and in the future of their businesses,” Mr Nand said.
He said the IHRDP continued to serve as a critical engine for rural development in Fiji by providing targeted capital, machinery, and resource support to community-based projects.
By addressing infrastructure and equipment deficits, the program aims to elevate rural industries to commercial viability. He said when businesses contributed alongside Government, it showed ownership, accountability, and a clear commitment to long–term growth and sustainability.
“At macroeconomic level, the initiatives and partnership will contribute toward the development of the commerce and business development ecosystem and implementation of the National Development Plan of Fiji.” According to the ministry, under Mr Naorodei’s leadership – and with additional technical expertise from five years as a heavy mobile mechanic – the business is currently transitioning into a high-capacity commercial operation through a major fleet modernisation project.
With this new asset, it stated the Noibuli Investment was well-positioned to scale its operations, contributing directly to the livelihood of their community and the broader Fijian forestry sector.
Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachida Nand hands over the key to the new $195k logging truck to the members of Noibuli Investment. Picture: SUPPLIED
