The Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Hon. Kalaveti Ravu, has highlighted the importance of resource owners tapping into and maximising the use of available inland and offshore resources for their daily sustenance.

Ravu during his visit to Kadavu Island, that the Ministry would provide support to resource owners, assisting them in cultivating their land for immediate and long-term returns, including the provision of fishing equipment. He informed the resource owners about the option to participate in Maritime Pine planting schemes funded by the government, aimed at helping them to generate additional income from both the land and sea.

Hon. Kalaveti emphasised that the approach not only promotes economic sustainability but also serves as a means to keep villagers engaged in legitimate income-generating activities, discouraging involvement in illegal pursuits such as the cultivation of Marijuana.

He outlined the Ministry’s plans for maritime zones, with a specific focus on empowering resource owners to fully realise the potential of the resources in their vicinity. The Minister emphasised the significance of these initiatives in fostering economic growth and sustainability.

Hon. Kalaveti is currently touring Kadavu Island to engage with local communities and further discuss the aforementioned initiatives.