Around 16,000 Fijians in Vanua Levu are expected to directly benefit from the Ministry of Environment’s Jobs for Nature Rehabilitation program which assists communities revitalize, restore and rebuild through nature-based employment.
The recipients for the program are assessed based on biodiversity protection through reforestation, mangrove and sea grass restoration works, riverbank and coastal protection and rehabilitation of degraded land through sustainable farming practices.
Minister for Environment, Doctor Mahendra Reddy says the program not only provides employment to local community groups but also rehabilitates and restores Fiji’s natural environment.
He highlighted this while disbursing a second round payment of $400 each to 29 recipients in Labasa today.
The 29 recipients were earlier paid $600 in the first round by the Ministry.
Dr Reddy says the program has so far initiated 76 projects in Fiji which focuses on environmental protection, restoration, rehabilitation and providing employment opportunities as part of the Ministry’s efforts post COVID-19 recovery.
The Minister has reminded the recipients that the socio-economic honour comes with a great responsibility, diligence and a duty of care that will revive the ecosystem.
