The Tebara E x – S e r v i c e m e n Association has received a major boost from Government that will directly help improve members welfare.

The 500-member association was handed its renovated and maintained temporary shed (12 metres×12 metres in size) yesterday that would also benefit more than 280 financial members at a project cost of $26,884. The association can now convene its meetings and other affairs in an improved shed structure from makeshift type to a more durable, spacious and resilient structure to accommodate increasing capacity of demand from women, senior citizens and even members with disability.

This was part of the first batch of the Self Help Programme from the new funding allocation of $157,884 for the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development in its 2022-2023 Budget. Officiating at the event, Minister Inia Seruiratu said this was a milestone achievement and the beginning of cooperation.

“When you develop a man, you develop an individual. When you develop a woman, you develop a society,” he said.

“Let’s work together. Let’s honour the sacrifice made by our fallen heroes.”

“With this support, the association will be able to provide financial assistance to their members needing medical care or welfare support to name a few. “This is part of the ongoing efforts and commitments of Government to ensure sustainable and improved living standards for all Fijians.”

Globally, this basic needs intervention is aligned to the Sustainable Development Goals under SDG 3 and 8, the 20 – year National Development Plan for Fiji, and also the 10 years Strategic Development plan of the ministry.

President

The association’s president, Ratu Draunibaka, said the milestone achievement was just the beginning of a journey.

“This will help us massively and get us closer as an association,” he said.

“We’ve served our country, given our time and hard work to contribute to our country.”

He served in the military for 30 years before retiring.

“We can’t thank the Government enough for helping us. We do not have much to offer to this association but we are grateful that we can be here today witnessing this handover,” he said.

As part of the project risk informed measures, additional work will be carried out including the construction of concrete pavement to promote a safer and user-friendly access with an installation of wind breaker to replace the existing corrugated iron which has been considered in the next phase of the project.

Story By: josefa.babitu@fijisun.com.fj