At the opening of the Cakaudrove Provincial Council in Yaroi Village, Savusavu this morning, Prime Minister Hon Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka delivered a compelling speech emphasising authentic leadership and collaborative efforts for community growth.
Prime Minister Rabuka affirmed, "Sincere leadership fosters prosperity within the Vanua," underscoring that genuine leadership is crucial for development, while insincerity could result in stagnation.
He extended his gratitude to the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs for the invitation and recognized its role in driving positive changes within the Vanua.
Prime Minister Rabuka lauded each province's rich customs and reflected on his interactions with local government officials.
Acknowledging the eight-month duration of the Coalition Government, he expressed contentment with the support received and noted ongoing and upcoming changes, despite challenges.
Prime Minister Rabuka urged the people of Cakaudrove to fulfill their obligations diligently and foster unity among regions, referencing the Council Meeting ceremonies of Macuata and Bua provinces.
Invoking constancy, he likened the people of Vanua Levu to a Northern Star, symbolizing their significance in guiding progress.
Regarding Savusavu, Prime Minister Rabuka stressed the importance of aligned, long-term planning for development, emphasizing its vision as a "Blue Town."
"When Savusavu is declared a Blue Town, it will usher in substantial development," the Prime Minister envisaged and emphasized meticulous planning and collaboration with the Government for this transformation.
Recognising repeated government messages, he called for a shift in reception and action, proposing comprehensive development plans encompassing all facets of provincial growth.
Addressing climate change, Prime Minister Rabuka encouraged embracing initiatives like Blue Carbon through mangrove planting, advocating collective responsibility.
He underscored the potential economic benefits of reducing Fiji's carbon footprint and mentioned Israel's interest in training Fijian youths in agriculture, particularly utilizing untapped grasslands.
Reflecting on successful international partnerships, the PM said the re-establishment of a Fiji Embassy in Israel will bolster national development.
Prime Minister Rabuka also called on Fijian youths to explore local opportunities and harness abundant resources, emphasizing family unity and a departure from a "duri ga me oto" mentality for collective progress.
In closing, he affirmed his commitment to upholding Government promises, supporting small businesses through the Fiji Development Bank, and ensuring financial aid for provinces, exemplified by annual allocations of $100,000 per province and the removal of provincial levies.