Twenty constituencies have successfully signed funding agreements with the government marking the rollout of the third phase of the Million Tala Grant initiative. 

Each participating district received the first tranche of the grant, amounting to $700,000 as part of the commitment to grassroots development.

The disbursement follows a rigorous evaluation process conducted by the Steering Committee, including a comprehensive review of each district council’s annual development plan and proposed budget for the 2024/2025 financial year. 

Additionally, districts were required to provide satisfactory audit reports detailing the use of funds from the previous grant cycle (FY2023/2024), which allocated $1 million per constituency.

Earlier this week, seven constituencies finalised their agreements, enabling the release of their initial funding. These districts include Lotofaga, Gagaifomauga No.1, Sagaga No.4, Va'a-o-Fonoti, Faleata No.2, Falealili No.2, and Anoama'a No.2. 

Their participation brings the total number of signed constituencies to 20, demonstrating steady progress in the government’s efforts to empower local governance and promote sustainable development.

Of the $700,000 disbursed in the first tranche, $160,000 has been earmarked for administrative and operational costs within district offices, while the remaining $540,000 is dedicated to community development initiatives as outlined in each district’s approved plans.

In line with accountability measures, districts are required to submit a detailed acquittal report to the Steering Committee explaining how the $540,000 portion of the first tranche is utilised. This report is a prerequisite for accessing the second tranche of funding, which is valued at $300,000.