Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, Small and Medium Enterprises, and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, has embarked on a five-day tour of the Northern Division.
The primary goal of this visit is to engage with recipients of grants from the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, SMEs, and Communications, allowing him to assess the impact of the support provided to these enterprises and initiatives.
DPM Kamikamica explained the ministry’s approach to service delivery, stating that after grants are awarded, the ministry strives to connect with recipients.
This interaction can take place before they receive their equipment or through follow-ups afterwards. Such engagement enables the ministry to evaluate the impact of their investments and understand the benefits to the community.
“Today was an insightful experience as we focused on supporting a women-led cooperative in Dreketi. Our efforts were aimed at assisting the members with stock inventory management and identifying additional areas where we can further enhance their operations.”
During his visit to Vuniqalitu Village, the women involved in the cooperative project showcased a strong motivation to succeed. Discussions went beyond the cooperative project, touching on potential initiatives to empower the rural economy. Given the region’s forest abundance, carbon trading emerged as a promising opportunity for economic development.
“There are numerous opportunities not only for the members of the Sede na Qele Women’s Cooperative but also for all those in the rural sector,” he added.
The Deputy Prime Minister also visited the Bureseini Farmer’s Cooperative in Seaqaqa.
“It’s always beneficial to visit cane farms and gain a clear understanding of their work. It’s evident that many farmers are diversifying,” DPM Kamikamica said.
“Farmers are expanding their crop production beyond sugar, which is a positive shift. This aligns with the government’s vision for the future of the sugar industry, focusing on collaboration to ensure profitability for farmers. Additionally, it’s encouraging to see that investment is beginning to shift toward the northern regions.”
DPM Kamikamica also toured a development project near Malau, where a Chinese investor is contributing to a high-end development initiative. He later visited the Pramod Enterprise project near the Vakamasisuasua Subdivision, behind Labasa Town.
The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the potential for large corporations to establish centres in the Northern Division, which complements the government’s initiatives to spur growth in the area.
“Significant developments are also taking place in Savusavu, and investment is increasing in Taveuni. This economic growth will likely transform the northern region over the next few years, thanks to the influx of high-end investments. It’s exciting news,” the DPM said.
The Coalition Government aims to diversify the economy by actively involving rural areas in broader economic activities. This strategy is yielding positive results, as evidenced by the growing interest from both local and international investors in the northern regions.