‘People focused and smart’ are some of the words the Minister for Local Government used to describe the 2017/2018 budget.

Praveen Kumar responded to the budget in Parliament last night highlighting that that the allocation for the municipal councils is the highest to date with $33.9 million provided.

“It will enable construction of markets in Namaka, Nadi, Rakiraki, Lagere in Nasinu as well as eight mini markets across Fiji that shall see a minimum of 1400 stalls promoting small businesses and providing direct market access to our rural producers.”

Kumar noted that there would be a number of capital projects boosted in the new financial year such as the renovation of Govind Park in Ba with an allocation of $2.6 million.