Investing in rural and maritime communities is an economic necessity and critical to Fiji’s future, says Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Risk Management Mosese Bulitavu.
Speaking on the 2026-2027 National Budget in Parliament last week, Mr Bulitavu said 41 per cent of Fiji’s population lived outside major urban centres and these communities played a vital role in the country’s economy and environmental protection.
“These communities produce much of the country’s agricultural commodities, protect our forests, manage our marine resources and preserve the traditions and values that define us as a people,” Mr Bulitavu said.
He said rural communities continued to face challenges, including limited access to infrastructure, healthcare, communication services and economic opportunities.
“Climate change has intensified these challenges. Increasingly severe tropical cyclones, prolonged droughts, flooding, coastal erosion and rising sea levels continue to place enormous pressure on rural livelihoods and critical infrastructure.”
He said rural development must remain a national priority.
“Therefore, investing in rural and maritime development is no longer simply a social obligation. It is an economic necessity.
“It is an investment in national security and stability. It is an investment in inclusive growth. It is an investment in Fiji’s future.”
Mr Bulitavu said the ministry would continue to focus on improving efficiency while ensuring essential services reached rural and maritime communities.
“We recognise the importance of reviewing workforce needs, improving efficiency, and strengthening coordination across Government while ensuring that key areas such as disaster response, community engagement, rural development planning and service delivery are adequately supported.”
