Fiji & Pacific Talanoa on Governance, Policy and Sustainable Development

The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZMFAT) is providing funding to CLCT (Civic Leaders for Clean Transactions) – Integrity Fiji to develop civil society engagement in the areas of Integrity, Transparency, Accountability and the general anti-corruption space. The funding is being made available through Transparency International New Zealand. As part of the partnership, 3 TINZ consultants (Debbie Gee, Suzanne Snively and Claire Johnston) will help set up a strong organizational governance framework. In addition, they will help develop policies on Communication, Finance, and a 3-year Strategic Plan. CLCT-IF is currently housed at 8 Desvouex Road. Sakeo Moce, the Board Secretary-Treasurer explains that apart from setting up an office during the Interim Period of July-Dec 2019, CLCT-IF is working with partners to develop proactive governance programs. One such constructive discussion is taking place with the Fiji National Sports Commission. It is expected that...

Nation must work together for the common good As we celebrate Constitution Day on Monday September 9, I look through our nation’s tumultuous journey to discover its soul and discuss our Constitution that protects iTaukei land and cultural rights, nurtures multicultural harmony and facilitates prosperity. While we hold divergent views, we should all learn to work together for the common good of our nation. As we reflect on our nation’s current situation, we realize that we have come a long way from the painful memories of 1987. We are resilient and have the capacity to live peacefully together in a multicultural nation made up of many races and Faiths. We have had seven continuous years of national economic growth. The Asian Development Bank recently noted that Fiji’s GDP is expected to grow by 3.2% in 2019 and 3.5% in 2020. The Constitution provides an affirming framework for empowering Fijian citizens to put aside their differences and to work together. As a citizen you sho...