Caption: LEFT-to-RIGHT-Acting-Permanent-Secretary-Mr.-Setareki-Tale-Commissioner-Eastern-Mr.Luke-Moroivalu-Assistant-Minister-Div.-Planning-Officer-Jone-.Photo:SUPPLIED.
The official handover to three new Divisional Commissioners in the past two days is a very significant milestone for the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and National Disaster Management, says Hon. Assistant Minister Joeli Cawaki.
Commissioner Central, Mr. Meleti Bainimarama, being garlanded
Speaking at the handover ceremonies for Divisional Commissioners Central and Eastern this week, Mr Cawaki said that historically Divisional Commissioners were the representatives of the Governor in the divisions.
“Today, the Commissioners are like heads of government in the divisions,” Mr Cawaki said.
“The Integrated Rural Development Framework that was adopted in 2009 has given the Commissioners as head of government in the divisional level the powers to roll out government programs and services on the ground.
“This is continually in line with government initiatives to strengthen service provision in the divisional and district rural areas.”
Mr Cawaki added that the commissioners needed the full support of divisional staff because they lead coordination efforts of line ministries as one team.
“Government ministries are doing a lot of work in our districts, but government needs to be seen as a team, one team.”
The Assistant Minister was present this week at the handover ceremony for Commissioner Western, Mr Manasa Tagicakibau, Commissioner Central, Mr Meleti Bainimarama and Commissioner Eastern, Mr Luke Moroivalu.
DEPTFO