Bua Province is making strides towards designating Nabouwalu as a town that is entirely owned by the people of the province. Sitiveni Lalibuli, the chairman of the provincial council, revealed that this objective is a significant topic of discussion ahead of the council meeting.
“This subject has been under discussion by our elders for a long time,” Lalibuli mentioned. “They believe that if Nabouwalu is to become a town, it should be owned by the province and its residents. We are committed to fulfilling this long-held goal.”
Lalibuli explained that the province, through its nine districts, plans to secure land in Nabouwalu by raising funds through provincial fundraisers. “A few years back, a fundraising event was held where each district was tasked with raising $40,000,” he said. “The funds raised will be used to purchase land in Nabouwalu to establish potential businesses or set up rental buildings. We have encouraged them to work towards this goal, bearing in mind that future generations will benefit from it.”
He added that the province initially raised over $200,000, which has been accruing interest at the Fiji Development Bank. The current account balance now stands at $300,000.