Villagers of Navutulevu in Serua will now have a chance to venture into a joinery business after the handover of new portable sawmill and small carpentry tools today.
The assistance was made possible through the Integrated Human Resources Development Program and is valued at $73,675, with Navutulevu Development Enterprise contributing more than $18,000.
While handing over the equipment and resources, Minister for Commerce and Trade Faiyaz Koya says this is a hallmark of the many good things to come.
Koya has reminded villagers that this is their project and they need to take full ownership of the business to ensure that it continues to flourish and grow.
He has told the villagers that if they do well, they will be able to create better lives for themselves and their families.
At least 50 youths in the area are trained and certified by the Ministry of Forestry.
Chairman of Navutulevu Development Enterprise Taito Nakalevu thanked the government for its continuous support to ensure that resource owners like them are able to pull resources together and generate income in their communities.
