'Don’t sell on credit,' minister tells grant recipients

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran has urged nine recipients of Income Generating Projects (IGP) not to sell items on credit.

Speaking at the handing-over of grants at the Golden Age Home in Labasa yesterday, Ms Kiran said many small businesses fail because of credit.

“When you have very small income, giving on credit will make your life more difficult,” she said.
“Be firm because that will define your success and failure.”

She emphasised the importance of money management and advised recipients to carefully consider their products and available markets.

“This occasion is not just about the transfer of tools or equipment but about providing dignity, empowerment, and opportunity to recipients,” she said.
“It’s about giving our people the means to rise above poverty and to create a better future for their families and communities.”

Ms Kiran noted that six of the recipients are already running their own small businesses and have shown determination and resilience. For the others, the support represents a fresh start and the opportunity to create an income source for their families.

Before receiving their grants, all recipients underwent ‘Start Your Business’ and financial literacy training.

“Small businesses have the power to lift families out of poverty, improve household nutrition, support children’s education, and strengthen community resilience,” she said.
“When one family thrives, the whole community benefits, and in the North, where opportunities can sometimes be harder to access, these initiatives are especially important.”
“This is not a handout, it is a hand up and an investment in your potential,” she added.

Recipient Karolina Marawa, a single mother of four from Bulileka Hart, Labasa, expressed her gratitude in tears.

“I am selling fish parcels and received cooking items, an aluminium pot, plastic storage box, and burner gas stove through this grant, which will now help me move forward and make more money,” she said.