More than 20 community representatives from villages in the provinces of Nadroga, Lomaiviti and Bua are in Suva undergoing training on the successful rural development concept, Saemaul Geumgo (SMG) model, being piloted in these identified communities.

The SMG model is based on the ancient practices of mutual help found in the Korean villages with the objective of sustainable financial development with emphasis on savings; and self-help development, highlighting the cooperative principle.

The SMG rural development model is established voluntarily by the community and the decisions within its management are autonomous creating a spirit of independence as well.

Investments, savings and lending money are planned by the communities themself.

The programme will complement the Saemaul Undong (SMU) Programme which has been piloted in the villages of Silana, Mau and Naimasimasi in the Central Division.

The Korean Government’s Ministry of Interior and Safety, through the Korean Federation of Community Credit Co-operatives (KFCC) has supported the SMG establishment in developing countries, which it intends to introduce now in Fiji.

Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, in his address to the community representatives, said the training goes well with the Coalition Government’s vision of encouraging more Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and their sustainability to support local communities and improve living standards and economic growth, especially in this period of socio-economic recovery from the global pandemic.

“To the community representatives, Government officials and participants present today, you are the catalyst of this new co-operative model by helping to spread the gospel in your respective villages, communities and Ministries. This Workshop will help enlighten and empower you on the Saemaul Geumgo initiative, which when implemented, will hopefully reap rewards for all Fijians,” Minister Ditoka said.

The SMG model is also intended as a tool to assist people in our rural and maritime communities on how best they can utilise the resources they have in addressing common problems such as poverty, and other issues.