UNFPA partners with Fiji to support rural communities through innovation and sustainable development programs

People living in rural and outer islands are going to get assistance through UNFPA’s designing and implementing incubation programs that will foster innovation and sustainable development.

While signing of the Implementing Partner Agreement between the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and UNFPA, Permanent Secretary, Isoa Talemaibua says in Fiji, the challenges faced by rural and maritime communities are complex and multifaceted, including limited access to healthcare, geographic isolation, and socio-economic barriers.

Talemaibua says these barriers often exacerbate vulnerabilities, particularly for women, adolescents, and marginalized groups.

He says UNFPA’s interventions aim to bridge these gaps by ensuring that no one is left behind, regardless of how remote their location or how significant the challenges they face.

UNFPA Director, Anjali Sen also highlighted the effectiveness of such partnerships, as they help address the needs of vulnerable groups in remote areas.

Sen says their collaboration has facilitated awareness campaigns on issues such as gender-based violence, the importance of saying no to drugs, and the implementation of projects like solar installations in the North.