Housing projects across the nation are facing significant delays due to land disputes, overcrowding, and unresolved family matters, according to Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa. He highlighted that many of these projects have been stalled for up to a decade, primarily in densely populated areas where tensions over land boundaries, access roads, and reduced lot sizes are prevalent.
“When people live so close to each other, disputes are bound to happen,” Mr. Nalumisa noted, emphasizing that some residents complain about diminished land sizes and the necessity of sharing common driveways. The ministry aims to address these conflicts through consultation rather than hastily pushing projects to completion that may lead to resident dissatisfaction.
He stated that addressing certain disputes can be time-consuming, particularly when they arise later in the development phase. As such, he encouraged residents living in areas earmarked for development to voice their concerns at the earliest opportunity and to collaborate with the ministry. “If issues are raised after roads and other infrastructure are completed, it only causes further delays,” he explained.
The minister added that the ministry is dealing with complex familial situations, where siblings may live in the same household or where some landowners are abroad. “These are sensitive matters that must be addressed as part of the development process,” he remarked.
Additionally, Mr. Nalumisa outlined that the ministry is working on enhancing living conditions for families in informal settlements through the development of 44 iTaukei land sites nationwide. A total of 48 sites have been identified for informal settlement upgrades, with 14 in the North, 21 in the West, and 13 in the Central Division.
Vunika, located about nine kilometers from Labasa Town, has been prioritized for major upgrades, covering nearly 17 hectares and benefiting 110 households. This project not only aims to build homes but also seeks to foster safer and more organized communities, ultimately paving the way for improved living conditions and stronger community ties.
These developments reflect a commitment to addressing housing needs while navigating the challenges posed by existing social dynamics.
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