Looking at development from an iTaukei perspective, there is so much more our rural communities can do for themselves, but all they need is to be encouraged, guided and supported.

This was highlighted by the Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management Sakiasi Ditoka during his tour of the Lomaiviti Province.

Ditoka says if our rural communities have been supported and well guided, there is more things they can develop themselves than what Government and donor agencies can offer.

He says all they have to do is look back to their history when political realities forced our communities to build huge fortifications, barricades, earthworks and moats.

He adds that the iTaukei needs to rekindle that community spirit in the battle against sea level rise, saltwater intrusion and climate change to safeguard our villages.

The Minister says there is so much that we can do when we work together with the government that will enable the environment for our communities to rise to their full potential.

He says there is much more that we can achieve with a whole of Government approach that can shape and harness our communities for their good.