UN RC Remarks at Closing of the Second Steering Committee Meeting – Joint SDG Fund Project on SDG Localization

It has been truly energizing to see such a strong, shared commitment – across national and local government, our UN colleagues, and development partners – to making SDG localization in Fiji a reality.

I would like to especially acknowledge the Ministry of Local Government for its leadership, Suva City Council for showing what is possible through the VLR process, and our partners at UNESCAP and UN-Habitat for your technical guidance and support throughout. 

We have come a long way since this initiative started, and today’s discussion reaffirmed just how aligned we are in our ambition: to make local governance more inclusive, data-driven, and resilient – and to anchor the SDGs at the heart of how our cities and towns operate.

What stood out clearly today is that we are not here to tick boxes or produce reports. We are here to institutionalize change.

And with the endorsement of the three strategic decisions – on planning, monitoring, and training – we are laying the foundation for lasting transformation. 

But of course, our work doesn’t end here. In many ways, it starts now.

The real test will be in how we implement the ideas and actions we have committed to today. That includes rolling out the SDG training programme, embedding VLR insights into financial planning and local development strategies, and ensuring meaningful participation from all segments of society, especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

I know that we will continue this momentum as we look ahead to reconvening in October 2025. That will be our next opportunity to reflect, assess progress, and push even further. 

Let me close by saying: this initiative and programme is more than a pilot – it is a platform. 

A platform for transforming how we work , how we govern, and how we build more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities for all Fijians. 

Vinaka Vakalevu, Dhanjavaad, Thank you once again for your continued partnership and dedication.