𝟏𝟓 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲-𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐌𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐢-𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

As part of the ongoing effort to strengthen grassroots development and promote inclusivity, the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, yesterday (11/06/25) handed over Multi-Ethnic Grants to 15 community-based organizations across the Western Division.

The grants will support a wide range of community-based projects, including: Borehole water projects, Equipment purchases, Fencing works, Learning and development initiatives, Purchase of musical instruments, Renovation and repair works, Shed materials, and Solar energy installations.

While handing over the grants to the communities in Lautoka, Minister Singh emphasized the transformative role the grant program has played in empowering local communities and improving service delivery.

“The Grant Program, much like the Girmit Commemoration event, has been a resounding success. We have received positive feedback from communities across the country. The Program has provided support to a diverse range of groups, including crematorium committees, church groups, educational institutions, mandalis, temples, and village communities,” he said.

Minister Singh further reiterated the wider vision of the grant program, highlighting that in doing so, the program is actively fostering social cohesion, one of the core objectives of the Ministry’s Grant initiative.

“This demonstrates that the Ministry, under the leadership of the Coalition Government, is making a positive impact at the grassroots level.” He said

Recognizing the growing demand for community support, Minister Singh confirmed that the Ministry has submitted a request for additional funding in the upcoming national budget.

Ms. Arti Ashna Devi, Chairperson of the District Advisory Councillors for Rakiraki, received the grant on behalf of the Rakiraki community. She expressed her gratitude to the Government and the Ministry, noting that support for such community-based projects will deliver long-term benefits and meaningful improvements for the people of Rakiraki.