Over 200,000 minors entitled to $202.54m in lease money

A total of 208,109 Fijians under the age of 18 years are entitled to $202.54 million in lease money.

Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama confirms this is part of the equal distribution of lease money to members of mataqali who have leased their their land.

Bainimarama says from 2017, funds of members below the age of 18 years were invested with HFC Bank with an intention of earning returns.

He adds these returns will be payable to members once they turn 18 years.

The Prime Minister says government’s decision to introduce the equal distribution of lease money will also relieve parents of the burden to fund the future expenses of their children.

Bainimarama says various investment opportunities have also opened up for young children and youths to pursue empowerment programs for their future growth and development.