The residents of the Cuvu informal settlement in Nadroga celebrated a pivotal moment as they received their lease offer letters, marking a significant step towards securing their future. These letters were presented by Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa, who highlighted that out of the 113 offer letters issued, 108 are designated for residential lots, while five are earmarked for religious purposes.
Minister Nalumisa expressed his congratulations to the Cuvu community, acknowledging their long-standing presence in the area and emphasizing the importance of this achievement. “Your patience, cooperation, and belief in this process have brought us here. As leaseholders, you now have the power to invest, build, and pass on secure land to the next generation,” he stated. The leases are set to be valid for an impressive 99 years, providing residents with a legal foundation to enhance their living conditions and invest in infrastructure.
This initiative is part of the government’s Informal Settlement Upgrading Programme, which aims to formalize settlements and improve housing accessibility across Fiji. Cuvu stands out as the first of three settlements to reach this stage, with others like Ledrusasa and Waidamudamu also expecting lease offerings by the end of 2025.
Minister Nalumisa emphasized that years of groundwork, including socio-economic surveys, were crucial in ensuring that the development truly addresses the community’s needs. The collaboration between the Ministry of Housing, traditional landowners, and community leaders played an essential role in achieving this milestone.
Reflecting on the journey ahead, the event symbolized both hope and progress for the residents of Cuvu, providing them with long-awaited security and the tools to improve their lives. The government’s ongoing focus on housing issues continues to breed optimism among communities, suggesting that sustainable living improvements are within reach for many families across Fiji.
Leave a comment