At the opening of the annual Adi Salusalu Festival held in Churchill Park (Lautoka) this afternoon, the head of government Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama praised the Ba province for their hard work and their commitment towards growing Fiji.
Speaking in the iTaukei language, the Prime Minister pointed out the contribution made not only by the private sector, but also by individuals and various communities was contributing towards a nation for all Fijians.
"This is what government wants to encourage so that we can build a better Fiji based on equality and common friendship", Prime Minister Bainimarama said.
"Government has implemented significant changes for the benefit of all Fijians".
"Government's reforms are targeted towards improving the lives of Fijians including the financially disadvantaged, those children who need educational assistance, basic utilities like water and electricity and basic infrastructure like roads".
The Prime Minister also commended leaders of Ba for holding the festival in a bid to raise funds for educational purposes, especially those in tertiary education.
"I have been advised that the festival aims to raise funds for education for the children of Ba".
"I'm also glad that the festival brings together all those from Ba and those who have made Ba their home".
The Prime Minister also took time to highlight Ba's contribution towards economic growth in the country.
"Ba is well known for contributing significantly to Fiji's economy in the mining, sugar, tourism and timber industry".
"I thank the province of Ba for this and for allowing these activities to take place on your land".