The Office of the Prime Minister this morning signed a grant agreement of $250,000 with the Fiji Mahogany Trust to better coordinate the needs of the mahogany landowners and to further enhance their contribution towards the mahogany industry.
The agreement was signed by the Permanent Secretary for the Office of the Prime Minister, Mr Yogesh Karan and Trust Chairman Mr Serevi Baledrokadroka.
At the signing, Mr Karan urged the Trust to be transparent and accountable and also utilise the grant wisely for the benefit of the landowners.
“The Fijian Government is working towards reforming the mahogany industry. The era of mismanaging the mahogany industry is a thing of the past, now it’s time to sustain the industry,” he said.
“The onus is on the Trust to use the grant wisely and ensure that every landowner is well-resourced with the knowledge and skills of using their natural resources for improved livelihoods.”
“This will also assist the industry to contribute effectively to the country’s economy.”
In response, Mr Baledrokadroka said they were indeed grateful to the Bainimarama-led government for the grant, adding it would certainly add more value to their strategic objectives.
“We plan for more capacity-building exercises, awareness training on land management practices, chainsaw workshops and financial literacy to name a few. When landowners lease their land for mahogany, at least they have a better idea of how to make good use of their lease monies,” he said.
“The Trust is working closely with relevant stakeholders to further educate the landowners. We also want them to venture into other income-generating initiatives so they can also contribute to the economy.
“We are encouraging the landowners to be part of the government’s drive towards sustainable management and development of forestry resources in Fiji.”
Meanwhile, the grant will also be used for other administration purposes.