Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama believes developing and improving infrastructure to improve quality of life of every Fijian will boost our economy.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the revamped Victoria Tennis Court in Suva yesterday, Bainimarama stressed the importance of developing sporting facilities as it will build a better Fiji.   

“All around Fiji, we are developing and improving infrastructure to improve the quality of life of every Fijian, including this new high-standard facility.

“We can do this because our economy is strong and growing, which allows us to re-invest in our people.

“So this robust economy that we have doesn’t just create jobs and business opportunities. It generates the revenue we need to build a better Fiji.”

The revamped Victoria Tennis Courts cost $238,000 and the Fiji Sports Council has used these funds to make this sport facility a place where everyone will be proud to play.

“We’ve installed new artificial turf surfaces on all five tennis courts, and given a facelift to these very popular squash courts.

“As Fijians, sports are a large part of our identity and a major source of our national pride. But sports and athletic activity play an even more important role in keeping us moving and keeping us healthy.

“One of my Government’s major priorities has been creating a healthier Fiji. That means encouraging healthier lifestyles as there are many steps we can take to improve our heath before stepping into the doctor’s office, and many things we can do to make sure we visit the doctor’s office less frequently.

“And athletic facilities provide opportunities to get of the house, get moving and make ourselves an even healthier people.

“This push by my Government isn’t only limited to Suva. I am delighted to report that the Fiji Sports Council Sigatoka Facility in Lawaqa Park has received nearly $2.1 million in re-development works.

“This sizable investment is an immense achievement for Fiji’s sporting industry and will bring enormous opportunities for sport and fitness to the region.

At the National Fitness Centre in Laucala Bay, Christmas has come early with the arrival of 30 new cardio machines this week. This was funded from a $100,000 commitment by Government to take proactive steps in building a Healthier Fiji by giving people the equipment they need to live more energetic lifestyles. 

“In the West, we’re contributing over $2.8m through next year’s budget for the redevelopment of Churchill Park which will include an all-weather track.

“Also in Lautoka, we’ll be commencing works on the construction of a botanical garden swimming pool that will be open to the public for recreational activities.”

Government has contributed $203,500 for the construction of the Ba Multipurpose Sports Complex which will now include an upgraded horse race track.

“As we approach the end of this year, rest assured that all of our efforts to build a healthier society will continue into 2016 because the job will not be done until every Fijian has access to the same opportunities to engage in a healthy lifestyle.”