The Housing Authority has plans to develop 200 prefabricated housing units along with 362 residential lots in an effort to address the urgent need for housing and enhance homeownership opportunities nationwide. According to Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa, these constructions are expected to commence within this year.
Nalumisa highlighted that this initiative is part of a broader strategy, which includes five public-private partnership projects aimed at raising first-time homeownership rates and mitigating informal settlements over the next decade. The targeted locations for these developments are Nepani, Davuilevu, Wainibuku, Tavakubu, Lautoka, and Tavua. However, he acknowledged that the financial viability of these projects has been challenging, prompting a cabinet decision earlier this year to transfer their management back to the Housing Authority.
In a bid to further this initiative, the Housing Authority has launched a call for expressions of interest, inviting developers to propose designs for three housing models: prefabricated units, duplexes, and strata units, with the deadline for submissions set for February 5, 2025.
The Minister also indicated that the Ministry is collaborating with various agencies to finalize a rent-to-own policy to facilitate a smoother transition into homeownership for new buyers.
In light of ongoing challenges in meeting housing demands, these efforts and initiatives signify a positive step towards providing affordable housing solutions to Fijians, offering hope as the nation strives to enhance living conditions and increase access to homes.
Overall, the Housing Authority’s focus on diverse housing options and collaborations with private sector developers is a proactive approach to tackling the housing crisis while promoting homeownership across the country.
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