Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka has affirmed the government’s commitment to the development of Vanua Levu, highlighting its significant potential and distinct appeal.
During the official launch of the Damodar City Labasa Hotel Brand, Gavoka announced that the government, in collaboration with the World Bank, is allocating $200 million towards the region under the Vanua Levu Tourism Development Programme.
He specified that $61.5 million will be dedicated to overcoming growth barriers, which encompass transport, infrastructure, essential services, and the limited presence of private sector services.
Gavoka emphasized the government’s ongoing support for developments that align with broader goals, ensuring that the growth achieved is sustainable, inclusive, and advantageous to everyone. He also pointed out that Fiji’s economy relies heavily on tourism within the services sector, indicating a need for substantial investment to elevate the current tourism contribution, which stands at three percent.