Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka today (01/04/23) opened the newly established commercial entity known as the Urata Lookout Cafe in Urata, Wailevu, Cakaudrove.
Speaking off the cuff Prime Minister Rabuka stressed the importance of cooperation and the support of local and overseas organisations that saw the construction of the building its gradual opening and the empowerment of the Urata village women who will be operating the business.
Situated atop a point overlooking Urata Village and Savusavu Bay, the popular spot is a known rest area for travelers and was chosen to take advantage of the many stopovers and breathtaking views.
“The establishment of this commercial entity was the result of the works of many people. We are not known as the Friendly North for nothing as we tend to look after one another with the spirit to help, to be kind to one another,” said the Prime Minister.
“It is the same spirit or desire to help that saw the establishment of the ‘Rotary’ movement in the world.”
“You may think you are down but there is always somebody worse off than you are and we thank people like the Rotarians all over the world. We also thank governments like the United States of America that helped struggling economies all over the world get off the ground,” said PM Rabuka.
The Prime Minister adds that there is a lot of potential for Savusavu and the surrounding areas.
“When people see these potentials and are willing to help, you will have projects like this the Urata Lookout Café, and many people will benefit but there are many more people out there who have donated their money to help people get off the ground.”
“We congratulate the United States Embassy in Suva for believing in the potential of this place when the project paper was presented to them.”
“There are so many people involved, the young architects, the students from Canada, Indonesia, and the United Kingdom who helped in the design and building of this excellent building, the Rotary Club of Savusavu, the Provincial Administrators office, and the many businesses who have assisted in the project to ensure the idea comes into fruition and the women of Urata will be empowered economically.”
“We congratulate us and everybody else for having a part to play in the establishment of this from the people who came up with the idea, those who put the project papers together, the financiers, and most of all the travelers who will be stopping over for refreshment and contribution to the success of the business,” said the Prime Minister.
One key focus of U.S. regional efforts has been supporting economic development.
US Ambassador to Fiji Ms. Marie Damour said the US contribution was part of the ‘Economic Grants Programme’ an initiative designed in response to Fiji’s COVID area economic downturn.
“The United States of America Embassy Suva in Suva is very proud to have contributed that initial impetus of $81,000.00 for the construction of this café.”
“I want to thank the Rotary Club Savusavu for their part in this project. Rotary has been a force for good assisting, providing assistance to members of their communities.”
“I feel very blessed today and hope that everyone who stops here will experience the same hospitality I have been enjoying since my arrival in Fiji.”
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Rabuka also mentioned that Savusavu will be the first Blue Town in the world.
“Plans are afoot and developed to make Savusavu the first blue town in the world which will mean an upsurge in economic activity for the picturesque town.”
Guests at the event include the Permanent Secretary for iTaukei Affairs, Mr. Pita Tagicakirewa, the Commissioner Northern Mr. Provincial Administrator Cakaudrove Mr. Uraia Rainima, and the Provincial Administrator Cakaudrove Mr. Ilisoni Lagi.