Fiji has launched the Blue Economy and Green Community Development (BE-GREEN) Programme, a six-year initiative aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods, restoring ecosystems and building climate resilience across Vanua Levu.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka launched the program in Koronatoga Village, Cakaudrove, describing it as a major step toward sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.
Rabuka said the initiative would increase the productivity of Vanua Levu's agriculture and marine sectors through sustainable resource management and biodiversity-friendly practices.
"The goal is clear: to boost rural incomes, restore ecosystems and enhance resilience, while complementing existing government and development partner initiatives in Vanua Levu, including the World Bank-supported Na Vualiku Project," he said.
The program will support stronger farming and fishing industries, improve market access, encourage rural entrepreneurship, restore ecosystems, and expand economic opportunities for women and young people.
Funded through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), the initiative will operate across the three provinces of Vanua Levu.
GEF funding is expected to benefit about 3,500 households, while IFAD investments will focus on six districts in Cakaudrove Province—East Wailevu, Savusavu, Navatu, Koroalau, Vaturova and Naweni.
Approximately 3,050 subsistence and semi-commercial farming, fishing and handicraft-producing households will receive direct support, with priority given to women, youth and Indigenous communities. Combined GEF and IFAD investments are expected to benefit around 39,300 people.
Rabuka said the program adopts an integrated approach linking environmental conservation with economic development through sustainable production, improved access to markets and finance, and stronger institutions.
"Our land and ocean are not only our heritage; they are the foundation of a resilient and prosperous future for the people of Vanua Levu," he said.
Speaking at the launch, IFAD Associate Vice-President for the Department of Country Operations Donal Brown said the initiative represents a renewed commitment to helping Fiji's rural communities adapt to climate change while creating sustainable economic opportunities.
Brown said Pacific communities face increasing challenges from climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, rising production costs and changing market conditions, making integrated development initiatives increasingly important.
He said the program would promote climate-resilient agriculture, strengthen biodiversity conservation, improve ecosystem management, expand market opportunities and improve access to finance and business services.
"Sustainable development in island contexts cannot be achieved through isolated interventions," Brown said.
"By supporting integrated planning, sustainable land use, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation, the BE-GREEN Programme will help communities make better decisions for both people and nature."
The BE-GREEN Programme is scheduled to run for six years, supporting Fiji's efforts to strengthen rural economies while protecting natural resources and improving climate resilience.
