The land bought by the government of Kiribati in the North has great economic potential, the President of Kiribati was told during his first official tour to Fiji.

President Taneti Maamau is in the North with his wife, Teiraeng, and a delegation from the High Commission of Kiribati to Fiji.

A briefing was given at Savusavu Hot Springs Hotel by Tukavesi district officer (DO) Samu Saumatua.

“There is still lot of potential in the development of Naviavia (Natoavatu Estate) with neighbouring villages and settlements,” Mr Saumatua said.

“The area is widely known for its agricultural potential and its ability to add to economic growth.”

Mr Saumatua told the delegation that it would add value to Government’s Look North Policy.

The Look North Policy focuses on development of such areas in the 2015 to 2020 development proposals, he said.

“This will add value, boost potential and create opportunities.”

Following the briefing, Mr Maamau toured the Natoavatu Estate on Tuesday.

The Kiribati Government bought 2210 hectares of estate in a bid to enhance its economic and social resilience in the face of climate change.

Yesterday, the President and the delegation arrived on Rabi Island and would be touring the four villages over the next five days.

On the island, Rabi Council of Leaders administrator Karia Christopher said: “We had three ministers with the Vice President coming here the last time, but now we have the President visiting us after 10 months in Government.

“These visits are very good. We have access to donors and help from overseas and if they are willing to extend that to us but of course, it has to go through the Fijian Government first.”

Mr Christopher said a major advantage of the visit was so they could liaise on developments that had been held off on Oceania Island for past years.

“We are thankful that his government see fit to come here with his team after a very long lapse,” he said.

“We are focused on Ocean Island where things have been put on hold off for so many years. We are facilitating and approving developments that have been pending.”

Mr Christopher said the President was visiting the island on the council’s invitation.

They are expected to return to Kiribati next week.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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