Cuvu Church Wins 34-Year Battle for Property Rights!

In a landmark development, the Cuvu Christ Embassy Church has finally received legal rights to its property after a lengthy 34-year process. The Ministry of Housing and Local Government announced this week the issuance of a 99-year lease to the church, along with 112 other residents in the Cuvu Settlement located in Sigatoka.

Pastor Semiti Kaisau accepted the lease on behalf of the church, which has been active in Cuvu since 1989. The congregation had begun its application for land tenure as early as 1990. Pastor Kaisau expressed his relief, noting that the long delay was partly due to the struggles faced by religious organizations attempting to secure formal leases.

Kaisau emphasized the significance of the new lease, stating that it provides the church and its members with long-term stability and a sense of ownership, thus allowing them to invest in their community. He mentioned, “It has a lot of implications because we are a church, rallying people. And then also, you know, we are promoting assurances and surety.”

The issuance of these leases is part of the government’s broader initiative aimed at regularizing land tenure in informal settlements, which includes providing legal stability not just for religious institutions but also for families in these areas. Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa highlighted that secure land tenure is essential in enhancing community development and improving access to services for residents.

The Minister’s ongoing commitment to this initiative reflects a hopeful outlook for the communities involved, suggesting that by ensuring legal recognition of their properties, families are empowered to build better futures.

This milestone represents a positive shift towards more stable living conditions across Fiji, as government efforts continue to foster community welfare and support the needs of informal settlements. As Cuvu sets an example, it brings optimism for similar initiatives in other areas, emphasizing the potential for growth and development in communities that have long awaited such recognition.