More than 1,000 applications received for community development grants

More than 1,000 applications have been received this year for the Multi-Ethnic Affairs Grant Programme, which supports community projects across Fiji.

This was highlighted by Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs Shalen Kumar while responding to the President’s address in Parliament.

Kumar highlights that the grant programme supports community-based organisations with projects such as boreholes, solar systems, community facilities, musical equipment, renovation projects and water management systems.

He says the strong response from communities shows the growing demand for support at the grassroots level.

Kumar adds that funding for the programme has been increased to $2 million this year, which is $700,000 more than the previous financial year, to support community development across the country.

Kumar also emphasises that the National Heritage Preservation Act will safeguard important historical sites such as the Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park and the colonial heritage of Levuka for future generations, strengthening the protection and promotion of Fiji’s cultural heritage.

The Assistant Minister says the Ministry will also provide arts grants to support multi-ethnic cultural collaborations, including the upcoming Fiji Festival of Unity, which will feature a mix of cultural performances including traditional and Bollywood-inspired dance.

Kumar says these initiatives aim to promote pride in Fiji’s diversity while reinforcing the constitutional values of mutual respect and harmony.

He also revealed that the Department of Culture, Heritage and Arts is working with the Ministry of Education to ensure culture, heritage and arts are reflected in Fiji’s national curriculum.

Insert: Kumar on inclusivity 10th March

He stresses the importance of social cohesion, saying it must be strengthened through dialogue, community engagement, cultural recognition and inclusive development policies.

Kumar adds that Fiji’s strength lies in its multicultural society and the unity of its diverse communities.