The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is grappling with significant staffing difficulties, having lost over 20 employees to international job opportunities in the past year. This exodus has resulted in challenges in filling specialized positions, as highlighted by FRA’s Chief Executive Officer, Apisai Ketenilagi, during a public submission to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Accounts.
Mr. Ketenilagi pointed out that only three current employees have lengthy tenures of 20 to 30 years in the FRA, underscoring the agency’s struggle to build up its internal capacity effectively. He emphasized the necessity of attracting key professionals, such as traffic, safety, geotechnical, and bridge structural engineers, and noted their current efforts to collaborate with foreign recruitment agencies to tackle this skilled labor shortage.
In light of these challenges, the FRA has also sought support from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank to enhance its capacity-building initiatives. Meanwhile, Ketenilagi mentioned that the FRA operates 30 depots nationwide, spread across various regions, which play a critical role in its operations.
This situation resonates with broader discussions regarding the management of existing infrastructure by the FRA. Previous articles have noted concerns over the authority’s priorities, particularly regarding its management of new constructions versus maintaining existing roads. Critics, including the Ministry of Public Works, have called for a more balanced approach that includes the upkeep of already existing roads to ensure public safety and long-term sustainability of the road network.
The FRA’s proactive approach in seeking international expertise and collaborating with development banks could foster a hopeful outlook for addressing the organizational challenges faced. By bolstering its specialized workforce and reinforcing its operational capacity, the authority may enhance its overall effectiveness in infrastructure development and maintenance, ultimately benefiting the citizens of Fiji.
This situation highlights a critical need for sound workforce management and strategic talent acquisition to support Fiji’s growing infrastructure demands.
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