Government of the Republic of Fiji
Government of the Republic of Fiji
11/07/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/06/2024 17:11
MINISTRY EMBARKS ON THE REVIEW OF THE...
SUVA, FIJI - The Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management is embarking on a comprehensive review of the Integrated Rural Development Framework (IRDF), marking a significant step in strengthening the coordination and integration of rural development planning and programmes across Fiji.
The Fiji National Development Plan (NDP) 2025 - 2029 identifies the development of the rural areas as one of the key priorities in Government. This is in line with the Government's aspirations of promoting sustainable growth and resilience in the rural and outer island communities.
Critical to this goal is the strengthening of the Integrated Rural Development Framework (IRDF) which NDP has highlighted as one of its target priorities to be reviewed. It will serve as a pathway to socioeconomic development opportunities for the rural communities.
Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Governance for Resilient (Gov4Res) Developments in the Pacific Project, this review aims to align rural development strategies more closely with national planning and policy objectives while directly addressing the unique needs and priorities of rural communities.
By doing so, the Ministry seeks to ensure that rural and maritime areas not only benefit from but actively contribute to Fiji's broader development goals.
As the Ministry undertakes this review, the ultimate goal is to lay the groundwork for the establishment of a National Rural Development Policy (NDRP).
The National Development Plan recognised the new policy will focus on graduating rural households out of poverty and address issues of access to safe drinking water, sanitation, electricity, and transport infrastructure, lack of secure employment, education and training opportunities, and impacts of disaster and climate change.
The review will help harmonise rural development initiatives across government sectors, ensuring that resources and efforts are effectively channelled to meet the specific needs of rural areas.
By prioritising local voices and needs, the IRDF review will ensure that rural development plans address pressing issues such as access to essential services and sustainable livelihoods.
Rural and maritime areas in Fiji are rich with natural, cultural, and human resources. By revitalising development structures, the Ministry seeks to unlock the vast economic and social potential these areas hold, creating opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation.
Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Mr. Isoa Talemaibua, emphasised the importance of this process, noting, "This review is an opportunity to create a more inclusive and forward-looking development framework that positions our rural communities as central contributors to Fiji's progress. By listening to the aspirations of rural communities and adapting our approach to reflect their realities, we are taking significant steps toward resilient and sustainable growth."
The Ministry invites all stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society, development partners, and the private sector, to engage in this process as we work towards strengthening the vital role that rural communities play in Fiji's prosperity.
The Ministry will be conducting nationwide consultations as part of the review, beginning with the Central Division from November 14-15.
The Fiji National Development Plan (NDP) 2025 - 2029 identifies the development of the rural areas as one of the key priorities in Government. This is in line with the Government's aspirations of promoting sustainable growth and resilience in the rural and outer island communities.
Critical to this goal is the strengthening of the Integrated Rural Development Framework (IRDF) which NDP has highlighted as one of its target priorities to be reviewed. It will serve as a pathway to socioeconomic development opportunities for the rural communities.
Supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Governance for Resilient (Gov4Res) Developments in the Pacific Project, this review aims to align rural development strategies more closely with national planning and policy objectives while directly addressing the unique needs and priorities of rural communities.
By doing so, the Ministry seeks to ensure that rural and maritime areas not only benefit from but actively contribute to Fiji's broader development goals.
As the Ministry undertakes this review, the ultimate goal is to lay the groundwork for the establishment of a National Rural Development Policy (NDRP).
The National Development Plan recognised the new policy will focus on graduating rural households out of poverty and address issues of access to safe drinking water, sanitation, electricity, and transport infrastructure, lack of secure employment, education and training opportunities, and impacts of disaster and climate change.
The review will help harmonise rural development initiatives across government sectors, ensuring that resources and efforts are effectively channelled to meet the specific needs of rural areas.
By prioritising local voices and needs, the IRDF review will ensure that rural development plans address pressing issues such as access to essential services and sustainable livelihoods.
Rural and maritime areas in Fiji are rich with natural, cultural, and human resources. By revitalising development structures, the Ministry seeks to unlock the vast economic and social potential these areas hold, creating opportunities for growth, investment, and innovation.
Permanent Secretary for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Mr. Isoa Talemaibua, emphasised the importance of this process, noting, "This review is an opportunity to create a more inclusive and forward-looking development framework that positions our rural communities as central contributors to Fiji's progress. By listening to the aspirations of rural communities and adapting our approach to reflect their realities, we are taking significant steps toward resilient and sustainable growth."
The Ministry invites all stakeholders, including community leaders, civil society, development partners, and the private sector, to engage in this process as we work towards strengthening the vital role that rural communities play in Fiji's prosperity.
The Ministry will be conducting nationwide consultations as part of the review, beginning with the Central Division from November 14-15.