The iTaukei Affairs Board deputy Permanent Secretary, Apakuki Kurusiga, says strategic plans are in place in Government’s five to 20-year development plans to create more economic opportunities for the iTaukei.

Speaking during an interview at the final Roko Tui meeting and workshop in Labasa, Mr Kurusiga said the provincial offices were creating available environment for that shift which was out to the rural areas.

“We are creating the environment here by extending our services into villages and assist them in economic activities,” Mr Kurusiga said.

“Provincial councils are extending their services to villages and Government is doing the same in terms of infrastructure development so that villagers can go into business.”

He said it was the proper time now for the iTaukei to take this opportunity .

“It needs a change of mindset on the perception that iTaukei cannot run good businesses,” Mr Kurusiga said.

He said this myth needs to change and the iTaukei Affairs Board are doing its best to improve the lives of the iTaukei.

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