Au Vakaturaga talega ki Na vanua, Nasavusavu vua Na Turaga na Tui Nasavusavu
Ni tiko na iTikotiko Vakaturaga, na Turaga kei na Marama ni Yavusa ena veidelaniyavu vakaturaga ka’u cavubaleta;
The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon Viliame Gavoka,
Leader of Opposition, Hon Inia Seruiratu
The World Bank Country Manager, Mr Stefano Mocci,
The Commissioner Northern Division and Government Officials;
Distinguished Guests, and Stakeholders,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Ni sa Bula Vina’a and a very good afternoon to you all.
 
I would like to begin by expressing my appreciation for the traditional ceremonies of welcome accorded today, which honor the office of the Prime Minister.
 
In doing so, I acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which we stand today.
 
I pay my respects to their Chiefs, both past and present, as well as emerging leaders and members of the Vanua o’ Nasavusavu who may be present here this morning.

I acknowledge their role in caring for the Vanua.
 
I am delighted to officiate at this momentous occasion for the Chiefs and people of Vanua Levu — the official launch of the “Na Vualiku Program”.
 
At this juncture, please allow me, as Prime Minister and a proud son of Vanua Levu, to bid a very warm welcome to our esteemed dignitaries, stakeholders, and partners.
 
In particular, I acknowledge the World Bank, whose support has made this vision a reality.
 
Mr. Stephano Mocci (say “Maw-Chee”) Fiji Country Manager, welcome to Vanua Levu!
 
Mr. Ajay Banga, the President of the World Bank visited Fiji just last week and our discussions included the launch of this critical tourism development program for Vanua Levu.
 
I also acknowledge the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation for spearheading implementation of this transformative initiative.                                                                                                                                                      The Na Vualiku Program — whose long title is the "Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu"—represents a pivotal moment in Fiji’s journey toward sustainable development.
 
Today, we acknowledge the unique strengths and challenges of the Northern Division, as well as the vibrant opportunities that lie ahead for this region.
 
This initiative, supported with a strategic financial partnership with the World Bank, is more than just a monetary investment.
 
In the past 18 to 20 months, over 10 companies have invested in projects in Vanua Levu, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad. The World Bank is committing $400 million over the next decade to support economic growth in the Northern Division. Thus, more of government’s commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment by developing transparent and consultative policies is critical and that includes infrastructure as well as other supporting activities that will significantly boost the economy in Vanua Levu.
 
Government is focused on a comprehensive strategy to uplift our economy, our people, and our future.
 
Statistics tells us that half of Fiji’s total population now resides in the urban areas. Rural-Urban migration is a shared common issue but across the world.
 
However, our efforts to address this, lies in our efforts for our people? What we as a Government, as a development partner can do for our people…
 
Fiji, as a whole, has a very young population, with over half of our citizens under the age of 30. In the Northern Division, 63% of the population falls within the productive age range of 15 to 64. This demographic represents a tremendous opportunity to harness the abundant natural resources and our people for growth and development.
 
At the heart of this program is the vision of a more prosperous and resilient Fiji.
 
We are committed to transforming Vanua Levu into a thriving tourism hub, one that fosters economic growth, creates meaningful employment, and attracts both local and international investment.
 
Tourism continues to be a driving force in our economy, and recent data from the Reserve Bank of Fiji shows that visitors’ arrivals remain strong, with nearly 100,000 visitors arriving in July and over 94,000 in August. These numbers reflect Fiji’s strong appeal as a destination for holidaymakers, business travellers, and those visiting friends and family.
 
I see a great opportunity for the Northern Division in this sector. While most visitors currently focus on other parts of Fiji, we can—and must—work to ensure that more of them explore and experience the beauty and culture of Vanua Levu.
 
Enhancing tourism in the North will provide jobs, spur local businesses, and inject much-needed investment into this region.
 
This development initiative aims to create the infrastructure and services needed to attract more visitors to the Northern Division, sharing the benefits of our thriving tourism industry.
 
The ripple effects of this program will be felt across the island and our nation, as the benefits of this investment empower local communities and strengthen our economy.
 
The economic potential of this program is immense.
 
With this financial support, we are not merely utilizing resources—we are investing in the future of our people.
 
This program will create jobs, boost local businesses, and bring new opportunities to the doorstep of every family.
 
In the Northern Division, the poverty rate hovers around 29%, and most of those affected live in rural areas. While the Northern Division has the lowest multidimensional poverty rate in the country, at 26%, we still have work to do to lift all of our citizens out of poverty and into a better quality of life.
 
As a government, we are focused on tackling poverty through targeted investments and policies. We know that the rural areas, where 38% of Fiji’s poor population resides, need special attention. By addressing these disparities, we can make sure that every Fijian has a fair shot at success, no matter where they live.
 
It is an opportunity for us to build a stronger, more inclusive economy that leaves no one behind.
 
But as we grow economically, we must also grow responsibly.
 
The Na Vualiku Program is firmly rooted in environmental sustainability and aligned with our global commitment to combat climate change.
 
By incorporating green initiatives such as renewable energy projects and conservation efforts, we ensure that this development does not come at the cost of our environment.
 
Indeed, utilising renewable energy not only reduces our fuel bill but will likely reduce our import bill!
 
The “Na Vualiku Program” is part of the Coalition Government’s commitment to build a resilient and sustainable future, one that protects our natural heritage for generations to come.
 
This program also recognizes that true progress is not just measured in economic numbers, but by improvements to the quality of life for our people.
 
By investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, the Na Vualiku Program is ensuring that the people of Vanua Levu, have access to the resources they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
 
This project is made possible by very close collaboration between government, the private sector, and our development partners.
 
The World Bank has been a steadfast ally in this journey, and the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation has worked tirelessly to bring this program to life.
 
Together, we are laying the foundation for a future of shared prosperity and sustainable growth.
 
As we embark on this exciting new chapter, I encourage all of you—our local communities, stakeholders, and partners—to actively participate and support this program.
 
The success of the Na Vualiku Program depends on our collective commitment to its vision.
 
Let us all take ownership of this opportunity and work together to ensure its success.
 
Today, as we officially launch this initiative, we do so with optimism and hope.
 
The Na Vualiku Program will be a driving force in shaping the future of Fiji, lifting Vanua Levu to new heights and creating a legacy of growth, sustainability, and opportunity for all.
 
Vinaka vakalevu, and may the Na Vualiku Program be a beacon of progress and prosperity for Fiji.
 
May God Bless You All
 
May God Bless Fiji.