CANADA is increasing its presence and financial support in the Pacific Islands through a $40 million, five-year development program to address shared global challenges.
Canada’s $40 million, five-year development program targets economic growth and social inclusion in Pacific Island countries.
The program builds on more than 50 years of Canadian development aid, totalling more than $500 million since 2000.
“This funding reflects Canada’s belief that global problems require joint solutions impacting all communities, including rural and underserved areas, said David Fournier, Canada’s Head of Cooperation for the Pacific, while officiating the launch of Fiji’s National Assistive Technology Hub in Suva.
“The program is designed to support sustainable change by aligning with local priorities and fostering regional partnerships
“Canada’s increased diplomatic presence, including the recent appointment of a High Commissioner to Fiji, strengthens on-the-ground coordination.”
The National Assistive Technology project, funded by the Canada Fund, exemplifies how it empowers local capacity to improve disability support across Fiji and the Pacific.
The project funds local artisans and technicians to repair and maintain mobility aids, ensuring sustainable support for persons with disabilities.
Fournier said it expands access through mobile outreach to reach rural and underserved communities.
“The approach moves beyond equipment provision to developing local expertise and long-term maintenance capacity.
“The program aligns with Canada Fund priorities of inclusive governance, gender equality, human dignity, and climate resilience
“This local-driven model serves as a blueprint for similar initiatives across the Pacific region,” he said.
Partnerships and Community-Led Solutions
Bringing together local organisations, government partners, and innovators is central to creating solutions that directly address community needs and improve access.
“The initiative is praised for its ‘by our own people, for our own people’ approach , which builds community ownership and relevance,” said Fournier
“Collaboration fosters inclusive solutions tailored to the unique challenges of Pacific Island communities.
“This partnership model strengthens trust and ensures that programs are responsive and sustainable.”
Fournier added the engagement of multiple stakeholders demonstrates a shift towards locally led development rather than external imposition
“It positions the project as a potential model inspiring other disability and inclusion efforts in the region.”
Shared Global Responsibility
Canada underscores that interconnected global challenges require joint action, linking local Pacific Island issues to global decisions and responsibilities.
Canada’s approach is grounded in the belief that the world is a single, interconnected community where local actions affect global outcomes.
“This mindset justifies Canada’s investment far from its borders to protect shared prosperity and future generations.
Fournier stated the strategy reflects a shift from isolated aid to collaborative problem-solving with mutual benefits.
“It embraces sustainability and inclusivity as core principles for long-term global and regional stability.”
This worldview shapes Canada’s engagement and motivates continued investment in multilateral partnerships across the Pacific.
