LANDS Minister Filimoni Vosarogo has told the Cakaudrove Provincial Council that there is a need for people to stop relying on assistance and start working together to improve their livelihoods.
Mr Vosarogo said the problem had worsened over the past 16 years.
“We are so used to waiting for assistance.
“It’s a habit we have gotten used to,” Mr Vosarogo said.
Opening the council meeting in Yaroi, he said this change in the people’s attitude must start with the leadership.
“There will be divisions within the iTaukei community if we do not work together,” Mr Vosarogo said.
“When people work together, we will be able to fight crime and drug problems that affect every village.
“With this, we will also address crime, not only in this province but across Fiji.”
Mr Vosarogo said the country would also be able to address the spike in HIV cases.
“Everything rises and falls.
“We will only be able to achieve this if we work together.”
He said the future of every village depended on people standing together and taking action now.
