For years, residents of the Banaban community in Rabi have always been deprived of accessing more economic opportunities and other income generating projects.
However through the direction of the Prime Minister’s Office, the community is now expected to benefit through new and various income generating projects that will be carried out this year.
The Office’s Development Cooperation and Facilitation Division deputy secretary Naipote Katonitabua says the completion of the Rabi jetty and a soon to be installed ice plant will now boost socio-economic development for the Banaban Community.
“We will be liaising closely with the Provincial Administrator Cakaudrove, the Rabi Council of leaders and village committees on the socio-economic development of Rabi,” he said.
“The Office of the Prime Minister administers the “Rabi Subvention Fund” which is valued at $105,000.”
Mr Katonitabua also added that for the last three years, the DCFD office has worked closely with the Rabi Island Council in upgrading their water systems through the provision of piping materials and water tanks to villages, settlements and schools.
“We are also funding other income generating projects such as fibreglass boats and outboard engines, we also funded the refurbishment of RCL Guest House, renovation of Rabi Community Hall and the provision of a proper sound system for the community”.
In 2012, the DCFD office funded hardware materials for the construction of ablution blocks for two primary schools and teachers quarters at Rabi High School.
A separate allocation for development projects this year for Rabi Island is totalled at $67,000.
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