The Fiji Development Bank (FDB) and the Sasakawa Peace Foundation (SPF) are exploring opportunities to support sustainable, community-based ecotourism and strengthen economic resilience in Fiji’s maritime communities.
The two organizations are discussing potential collaboration focused on community empowerment, responsible ocean stewardship and long-term development partnerships.
Fiji has significant marine resources, with 3.5 percent of the world’s coral reefs located within its Exclusive Economic Zone and more than 65,000 hectares of mangroves along its coastlines.
These ecosystems underpin the country’s economy, culture, food security and resilience while presenting opportunities for sustainable blue economy development.
For FDB, the initiative aligns with Strategic Pillar 5 — Sustainability, Social Impact and Development, which focuses on supporting eco-inclusive growth in line with Fiji’s National Development Plan.
As part of the exploratory engagement, representatives from SPF and FDB recently visited Levuka and Vanua Balavu, meeting with local communities, government agencies, provincial authorities and traditional leaders.
The discussions examined existing tourism practices, community aspirations and potential opportunities for sustainable development.
The visits highlighted opportunities for community-based ecotourism and agritourism that could showcase Fiji’s culture, national heritage and traditional knowledge while creating economic opportunities for local communities.
SPF also introduced its Sasakawa Community Based Eco-Tourism Model, which seeks to balance environmental conservation and cultural preservation with tangible economic benefits for communities.
The model emphasizes knowledge-sharing, capacity building and exchange opportunities to help communities develop tourism ventures that are commercially viable while remaining environmentally responsible.
FDB and SPF said their discussions are continuing as they explore areas for future collaboration.
The organizations share a vision of supporting resilient communities, healthy ecosystems and sustainable economic opportunities for future generations, they said.
Communities, development partners, government agencies, investors and other organizations interested in sustainable and inclusive blue economy initiatives in Fiji can contact FDB for information on potential collaboration, investment and community-based development opportunities.
