Landowners are encouraged to take an active role in the management of their land, according to Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Public Works, Meteorology and Transport. During the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) involving the Fiji National Provident Fund, the Asian Development Bank, and the Nakovacake Development Trust for a large-scale tourism project in Nasaulevu, Nadi, the Minister stated that the Government aims to ensure that landowners are engaged as active participants in the economy rather than remaining passive.
“This is a significant day for all of us, especially regarding community involvement and engagement,” he remarked. He also noted the Government’s commitment to assist landowners in their economic endeavors.
Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai, the chairman of the Nakovacake Development Trust, highlighted the importance of this occasion during the ceremony, describing it as a pivotal moment not only for local communities but for Fiji and the wider region. He pointed out that this is the first time the FNPF and the ADB have collaborated on such a substantial project.
“This partnership is set to drive major development and create opportunities for our nation,” Gadai stated, adding that the MOU symbolizes the start of a transformative journey for the people of Nakovacake. He emphasized that the development at Nasaulevu, positioned directly across from Port Denarau Marina, will benefit the tourism industry and the local communities.
“This marks the start of a journey to reconnect with the land where our ancestors first settled, a place known as Nasaulevu that represents our roots,” Brig-Gen Gadai expressed.