$228k Grant to Empower Communities

Seven community-based organisations in the Central and Eastern Divisions have received financial aid from the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry to fund initiatives that aim to improve the well-being of these communities.

Yesterday, the line Minister, Charan Jeath Singh, delivered grants to religious groups, women’s clubs, and other community-led bodies to fund the purchase of equipment, learning and development, shed materials, solar projects, and cemetery upgrades as part of the Multi-Ethnic Grant Programme’s second round of disbursements this year.

“The rolling out of the Multi-Ethnic Grant Programme has already distributed $1.48 million in the first round,” said Mr Singh.

“The second round, which we are commencing today (yesterday), will disburse $228,275.”

The programme aims to empower and strengthen diverse community-based organisations and advance the ministry’s overarching ‘social cohesion approach’ to promoting inclusivity and improving multi-ethnic relations.

Mr Singh said the initiative has been a “resounding success”.

“We have received positive feedback from communities across the country. In the Central Division alone, the programme has provided support to a diverse range of groups, including crematorium committees, church groups, educational institutions, mandalis, temples, and village communities,” he said.

“Based on the feedback we have received, our assistance has not only improved access to resources but has also fostered greater collaboration and unity among community members working towards shared goals.”

Grant recipients 

Among the recipients was Kalabu Women’s Club in Nasinu, a women-led initiative that supports women and their projects in Kalabu.

The club applied for a grant in November last year.

Club representative Melenia Tabua said the $3500 they received yesterday would be used to purchase kitchen utensils for village functions.

“We often have to borrow utensils and pots from other places for functions. We’re very thankful to God for providing for us,” she said.

Nukumoto Women’s Club in Rewa was awarded $4590. After applying in November last year, Club President Ranjana Kumar said they got the call that they were successful on Monday.

“We applied for this grant because our Indian settlement, where there are no streetlights, has the power mostly off. By the time our young people, who work in Suva, come home, it’s dark. The streetlights would ensure it is safe for them when they return,” she told this masthead.

“We are really happy that Government has assisted us with this grant.”

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