The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has announced that residents of Cuvu, Sigatoka, will receive their 99-year leases before the end of the year. Minister Filimoni Vosarogo made this statement during a parliamentary session, addressing questions from Independent Opposition MP Parveen Bala.
In a previous announcement made on March 12, 2024, the government confirmed its intention to issue the leases, and Vosarogo explained that clearance from the Office of the Solicitor General had been secured regarding the offer letters. “If the residents are okay with the offer and the conditions, then we’re surely ready to provide them with 99-year leases,” he stated, expressing optimism that the leases will be delivered by year-end.
During the session, Mr. Bala also inquired about the payment methods and exact costs associated with the leases. While the Minister acknowledged that there would be a premium and annual rental fees, he refrained from disclosing specific amounts, citing ongoing assessments of development costs previously incurred by the Ministry of Housing. Vosarogo emphasized the long-standing demand from residents for these leases and expressed confidence that 2025 would be a significant year for them in achieving security of tenure.
The plans for the issuance of these leases are aligned with continuous efforts from the government to address housing needs and improve living conditions across different regions in Fiji. In related initiatives, the Ministry of Local Government and Housing is managing development leases under the Informal Settlement Upgrading Program, aiming to formalize settlements and enhance housing accessibility in various divisions.
These steps reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to addressing housing challenges, fostering an environment of security and support for residents, and ultimately leading towards improved community well-being. With the issuance of these leases, there is hope that the residents of Cuvu will attain greater security and stability in their living conditions, contributing to their long-term welfare.
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