BRIDGING THE INFORMATION GAP

The Fiji Development Bank continues to narrow the information divide between the bank and the general public by being part of the Ministry of Rural Development organised government roadshows.

“Being informed is important and this is one of the areas we continue to strengthen in our services. Our participation at the roadshows is primarily to let the people know what FDB is all about and the various financial services they can get from the bank,” FDB chief executive officer Mr. Deve Toganivalu said.

FDB was part of the two day government roadshow at Laselevu Village in Naitasiri on 28-29 May.

The road show is part of government’s initiative in bringing its services closer to the people especially those in remote locations such as Naitasiri.

“We have been part of these roadshows from the beginning as we have an obligation to the public so that they can make informed decisions when looking for financial assistance for their farms or small businesses.”

Government agencies, financial institutions and stakeholders were part of the two day roadshow which brought together everyday services which rural people would normally travel all the way to Suva to acquire. These included birth and death registrations, Tax Identification Number applications, opening of bank accounts and many others.

“Having our presence at the roadshow amongst other financial institutions gives the people an opportunity to make informed decisions on the financial services they require.”

In closing the two day event, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forests, and Rural & Maritime Development and National Disaster ManagementMr. Inia Seruiratu confirmed that government and its stakeholders will only continue to improve its services.

“Our focus is to continue to better our services so that you the people will reap the full benefits. We want to ensure that services you would normally come to Suva or Nausori for will be brought closer. We will take on board issues that you will raise with us here and use that to improve the services we provide,” said Mr. Seruiratu.
FDB was also part of the first government road show this year in Wainikoro, Macuata, Vanua Levu on 3-4 April.