🌊 Setting the Record Straight: One Trip, Big Gains for Fijian Farmers
In response to a misleading report in the Fiji Sun, Acting Minister for Agriculture addresses claims that Hon. Sakiusa Tubuna was the “most travelled Assistant Minister” due to a $50,938.19 trip to the 2024 United Nations General Assembly in New York.
🛫 Fact Check:
Hon. Tubuna made only one overseas trip in 2024—to advance a transformative initiative for Fijian agriculture.
🤝 While in New York, he met with the President of IFAD, securing momentum for the Fiji Blue Economy and Green Village Community Development Project—valued at over FJ$75 million (US$25M).
🌱 Impact: 3,000 farming households in Savusavu, Naweni, Wailevu East, Navatu, Koroalau, and Vaturova will benefit through:
- Better incomes and market access
- Eco-friendly farming support
- Road and service upgrades
- Climate resilience for rural communities
🧩 Hon. Tubuna’s prior experience with IFAD was pivotal in progressing this game-changing project, now in its final approval stages.
📣 Hon. Tubuna welcomes transparency but urges that the full story be told—not selective headlines. One trip. One opportunity. Thousands of lives uplifted.
