THE Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development or FRIEND has officially been commended by the Fijian Government for a quarter-century of transforming local skills, traditional knowledge, and community resources into thriving, sustainable livelihoods.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Industries, Commerce, Business Development and Public Enterprises Manoa Kamikamica lauded the milestone during celebrations marking a decade of collaboration between FRIEND and the Motibhai Group of Companies.
Mr Kamikamica emphasised that behind every successful commercial venture lay a household touched by opportunity.
“Behind every carton of product that leaves this building for a supermarket shelf, there is a family,” he said.
Founded in 2001 by the now Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, FRIEND has expanded its reach across more than 500 communities.
The organisation has empowered over 6000 women and supported hundreds of farmers through initiatives like the EU-backed GROW program, advancing organic farming, beekeeping, and food preservation.
Through its decade-long alliance with Motibhai, 31 distinct, fully Fijian-made FRIEND Fiji Style products now occupy prominent retail shelves nationwide.
This success aligns seamlessly with the national economic vision. With micro, small, and medium enterprises currently contributing approximately 18 per cent of Fiji’s Gross Domestic Product, the Government aims to elevate that figure to 40 per cent under the MSME Strategic Plan spanning 2025 to 2030.
Backed by millions in targeted grant allocations and extensive training programs, the ministry continues to build an ecosystem where local entrepreneurs can thrive.
Mr Kamikamica said that FRIEND’s enduring journey served as a vital blueprint for national development, proving that small enterprises flourish when deep-rooted community skills connected directly with commercial opportunity.
