Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Risk Management Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka has commended the Saemaul Undong (SMU) initiative as a catalyst for rural transformation, highlighting its positive impact in three pilot communities in Fiji.
Speaking at the Saemaul Undong Ministerial Conference this week in Gyeongju City, Korea, Minister Ditoka expressed Fiji’s gratitude to the Government and people of the Republic of Korea for their generosity and continued support. He said that beyond infrastructure, the programme was helping reshape the way rural Fijians viewed and led development, guided by the core principles of diligence, self-help, and cooperation.
“Through the Saemaul Undong programme, we are not only building facilities, but we are also strengthening community leadership, instilling financial discipline, and nurturing a culture of self-reliance. The true transformation lies in building the mindset and resilience of our people,” Minister Ditoka said.
Hon. Ditoka highlighted achievements across the three pilot villages at Mau in Namosi, and Silana and Namasimasi in Tailevu. These include the upgrading of village halls and health facilities, the development of eco-tourism ventures, construction of resilient evacuation centres, establishment of cooperative income-generating projects, and improvements in waste management, sanitation, and agricultural practices.
From these pilots, key lessons have emerged such as the importance of strengthening savings culture, ensuring good governance, enhancing financial literacy, and encouraging sustainable income projects. Hon. Ditoka emphasised that these lessons were crucial in driving rural development and could play a central role in shaping resilient, inclusive, and sustainable rural development in Fiji.
“As we celebrate these achievements, we must also remember that this progress has been made possible through the generosity of the Korean people. We remain committed to using this support wisely, transparently, and accountably. Mau, Silana, and Namasimasi now stand as living examples of how Saemaul Undong can be adapted and thrive in the Pacific,” he added.