The 2017 national census revealed that 390,635 of Fiji’s population reside in the rural and maritime areas while 494,252 reside in the urban areas.

Assistant Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, National Disaster Management and Meteorological Services, Joeli Cawaki, in support of the 2018-2019 National Budget, revealed this latest data in Parliament yesterday.

He added the rural population had decreased by 21,790 from the previous national census conducted in 2007.

“Madam Speaker, the 2017 National Census indicated a population increase of 16.3 per cent or 69,406 for urban residents were attributed to mainly the extension of urban boundaries as well as the rural to urban adrift,” Mr Cawaki said.

“These national statistics, which I have just mentioned are important to highlight because they are also basis for both ongoing and new initiatives by Government that are budgeted for to accommodate or address the needs of our rural and maritime communities.”

Speaking on the Budget, Mr Cawaki added he was confident that it would address the current realities while at the same time prepare every Fijian family for the unforeseen future.

Mr Cawaki said that the Budget would allow Government ministries to improve their services to the public.

“The Budget most definitely demonstrates Government’s recognition of the remoteness and isolation of our rural and maritime communities and restates its commitment in developing strategies ,” he said.

Edited by Percy Kean

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