Hundreds gathered at Vashist Muni College in Navua today for the presentation of small and micro business grant to selected recipients.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama presented 127 recipients with $1000 each, a grant that is aimed at boosting small businesses and lift economic growth.
Jimi Meke Ravetau of Wainimakitu, Namosi was delighted to receive the grant and said this will really boost his plans to expand his dalo farm.
“We are currently planting dalo at the moment and this money will be used for the purchase of machinery and expand our production,” Mr Ravetau said.
“There is also potential in the ginger production and we have also planned to tap into that market.”
Sharing similar sentiments, Lavenia Nawaqa of Burotu village commended government for appreciating the efforts of micro businesses.
“With this grant I will be able to expand my business in the village, I bake bread for the village and we will now be able to buy new materials for the bakery,” Ms Nawaqa said.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama while handing out the grant to we are giving you the ability to help yourselves and your families. We are putting our confidence and trust in you to use this assistance well.
“Because we see you as part of our national effort to promote a business culture in Fiji. To create a solid base of small business people who can be the backbone of our economy, just as the small business sector is the backbone of every successful modern nation,” PM Bainimarama said.
PM Bainimarama encouraged the recipients to put this money to good use. To either buy what they need to start their own business or improve the business they already have.