Ten newly refurbished bures, a dining hall, and a cooking area were opened by Minister for Commerce, Trade, Transport, and Tourism, Faiyaz Koya at the Namosi Eco Retreat in Namosi yesterday (11/10/22)
Situated across the river from Navunikabi Village and owned by Mr Daniele Sovanitabua, the eco-retreat underwent refurbishment after the lull brought about by the pandemic and was assisted by the Integrated Human Resources Development Program.
“The Fijian Government believes that the best and most effective way to economically empower rural communities is to identify what they do best and to provide them with the necessary support to achieve that particular vision,” Minister Koya said while addressing guests at the event.
“This is why we've invested $24,000 through the Integrated Human Resources Development Program in the project to revive and kickstart your operations which is important given the nature of your business.”
“This eco-tourism venture will provide an additional source of revenue and income for the people of Navunikabi Village here in Namosi and as a bonus, this particular eco-retreat is a digital detox for all of us, giving guests a break from mobile phones, the internet, and sometimes even electricity access,” said Minister Koya.
The Minister further said that the Ministry is confident that the eco retreat will be able to sustain itself in the long term.
“I'd like to remind the Namosi Eco Retreat and also the community at large that you need to take full ownership of the business and ensure that it flourishes and grows.”
“There are many things that you can do with this particular project, please be cautious of everything around you, especially our most important concern: climate change and do keep our environment healthy and clean for future generations to also enjoy what we enjoy daily.”
Eco-Retreat owner, Mr Daniele Sovatabua, said the assistance by Government was motivation in itself and encourages resource owners in rural settings to venture into small micro-enterprises and establish a business of their own.
“I had thought of giving up but without a vision, people perish so I sought other avenues to keep my business going and I am grateful that the Ministry for Commerce, Trade, Transport, and Tourism assisted me through the IHRDP,” he said.
“I call on my fellow Fijians to explore businesses such as mine and make use of the beautiful flora and fauna as a source of income and a way to showcase the beauty of our island nation through our culture and hospitality.”
A group of American students on a cultural exchange program were also at the eco-retreat and performed a meke for the guests during the event.