The number of Fijians receiving social welfare assistance has climbed steadily over the past three years, according to official figures released by the Ministry for Women, Children and Social Protection.
In the financial year 2021-2022, 148,349 people received assistance. That number rose to 152,911 in 2022-2023 and increased again to 153,836 in 2023-2024.
Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran said the data clearly showed that support for vulnerable Fijians was growing – not shrinking – and slammed claims that people were being cut from welfare rolls, resulting in more street dwellers.
“That is not only malicious but misinformation,” Ms Kiran said. “The number of people receiving help has grown every year.”
The ministry strongly denied allegations circulating on social media that people were being removed from assistance programs, causing a spike in homelessness.
Instead, it said it was working closely with other agencies to provide solutions for people living on the streets, including children, elderly persons and beggars, and helping them access the support they needed.
“We regularly reassess individuals on social welfare to ensure they continue to meet the criteria,” Ms Kiran said.
“By streamlining our processes, more applications have been processed, and more people are receiving the help they need.”
As part of ongoing reforms, the ministry is digitising all social protection programs and updating its records to improve efficiency and transparency.
“We are making sure people who can support themselves are helped to do so, so we can focus more on those who need help the most.
“This reform will help the Government spend money more wisely, giving more help to those in urgent need.”
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare of all Fijians and building a stronger, more sustainable social protection system for the future.
