Communities across Kadavu are benefiting from a significant increase in Government investment, with funding for village development rising more than fourfold over the past five years.

Investment grew from about $180,000 in the 2020–2021 financial year to more than $776,000 in 2024–2025, supporting projects aimed at improving rural infrastructure, access to essential services and community resilience.

The development was highlighted by Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu, during the opening of the 2026 Kadavu Provincial Council Meeting in Suva yesterday.

According to the Minister, Government funding has contributed to the construction and improvement of evacuation centres, roads and crossings, while also supporting the provision of boats and outboard engines, rural housing, water supply projects and climate resilience programmes.

Minister Bulitavu acknowledged the partnership between Government and the people of Kadavu in advancing development initiatives designed to improve livelihoods across the province.

He also welcomed the completion of the Kadavu Provincial Council’s 10-Year Strategic Development Plan, saying its implementation would depend on strong coordination with the National Development Plan and continued cooperation between Government and communities.

District representatives were urged to take an active role in district and village meetings, ensuring that local priorities and community needs are identified and considered in Government planning.

With Kadavu’s marine and forest resources offering further potential for economic growth, the Minister encouraged communities to manage these resources responsibly. He also stressed the importance of preserving traditional knowledge, which can play a key role in strengthening communities against the impacts of climate change.