The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to reducing rural poverty, outlining a broad strategy focused on infrastructure, social protection and economic empowerment.
Tabling a written response to a question that was filed, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka said poverty reduction in rural and maritime communities remains a central priority, guided by the National Development Plan 2025–2029 and Vision 2050.
He noted that while progress is being made, it would be “premature” to provide a definitive number of families lifted out of poverty since 2023, as updated national data is still being compiled.
“Poverty reduction must be addressed with statistical rigor and evidence-based reporting,” he said.
The Prime Minister highlighted that nearly 30 per cent of Fijians were living below the poverty line based on the latest Household Income and Expenditure Survey, with rural communities disproportionately affected.
To address this, Government interventions have focused on improving access to essential services, strengthening agriculture and fisheries programmes, and expanding social protection schemes.
“Our approach is comprehensive, focused on raising incomes, improving access to services and expanding economic participation,” Mr Rabuka said.
He added that investments in rural infrastructure—such as roads, electrification, water and sanitation—are helping to reduce isolation and improve livelihoods.
A key initiative has been the Development Grant programme, which has supported 164 rural community projects since 2023, benefiting more than 24,600 Fijians across the country.
“These interventions are practical, targeted and impact-driven, addressing immediate needs while strengthening long-term resilience,” he said.
The Government is also working with development partners to expand access to finance, innovation and technical support, enabling rural communities to better integrate into the national economy.
Mr Rabuka stressed that the long-term goal is to transition households from subsistence living to sustainable economic participation.
“This Government remains firmly committed to ensuring that no rural Fijian is left behind,” he said.
