Only 45% of Fijians reside in villages, while 55% live in urban areas, according to Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lynda Tabuya. Speaking at the first ministerial forum on gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in Lami, she highlighted that over 150,000 people are living in informal settlements, presenting a challenge for the government.
Tabuya noted that there are five informal settlements in Lami, including Qauia, which is the largest in Fiji, housing approximately 5,000 residents. Despite their numbers, those in Qauia continue to struggle with poverty and lack adequate infrastructure and electricity.
The minister pointed out that crime rates, particularly drug-related offences, are highest in these informal and squatter settlements, exacerbated by poverty. She raised concerns about the lack of security and tenure for displaced individuals, questioning how to address their needs effectively.
“The women in these informal and squatter settlements are bearing the brunt of social issues while trying to maintain stability,” Ms. Tabuya stated. She also challenged traditional leaders to take action regarding the people living in these areas, emphasizing their potential role in reaching out to these communities, which often retain their traditional organization.
“I encourage leaders to ensure that their influence extends to these informal squatter settlements, as they remain organized like villages,” she asserted, calling for a collective effort to address these pressing issues.