Welfare boost aimed at ending poverty: Kiran

Fiji's government is shifting its focus from long-term welfare dependency to empowering vulnerable families through self-reliance initiatives. Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran stated that the Coalition Government is making significant investments in programs designed to build sustainable incomes and break the cycle of poverty.

Currently, more than 130,000 vulnerable Fijians are benefiting from new livelihood programs. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to ensure that individuals and families can achieve economic independence. Kiran also announced the upcoming launch of a National Poverty Strategy, which aims to improve access to essential services and implement enduring solutions to poverty.

To streamline operations and enhance accountability, the ministry is overhauling its welfare system. This includes digitizing thousands of manual records, a move expected to expedite payments, prevent duplicate claims, and improve overall management. Kiran addressed concerns regarding a $3 million audit issue, clarifying that it stemmed from manual reconciliation errors rather than missing funds, and expressed confidence that digitalization will resolve these long-standing problems.

In parallel, Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel highlighted the government's commitment to supporting families facing economic hardship. Welfare payments saw a 15 percent increase in 2023, followed by an additional 5 percent rise in 2025, demonstrating a proactive approach to cushioning citizens against the rising cost of living.

“

So it was a reconciliation issue and it’s been an ongoing issue for many years; we are hoping with digitalization now, we will be able to very efficiently manage it.