Fiji’s transport system faces significant challenges as it grapples with aging infrastructure, rising urban congestion, safety risks on the roads, and climate-related disruptions. These pressures are impacting everyday life for Fijians, from students trying to reach school to farmers needing to deliver their goods and island communities sorting access to essential services.
George Tavo, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Public Works and Meteorological Services, underscored the urgent need for improvements during the National Transport Infrastructure Consultation Forum for 2026, the first such forum since 2018. He noted that the aging assets coupled with escalating maintenance demands could jeopardize road safety, increase congestion, and lead to more frequent disruptions caused by climate events.
At the heart of the discussions was a call for better coordination, strategic planning, and sustainable investment to create a transport network that is not only safer and more reliable but also resilient against future challenges. The Ministry is spearheading two significant initiatives: the Transport Sector Master Plan, which will guide investments across land, maritime, and aviation sectors, and the Transport Decarbonisation Implementation Strategy, which emphasizes fuel efficiency, cleaner vehicles, and robust infrastructure.
Fiji’s transport assets—comprising roads, bridges, ports, jetties, and airports—are valued at approximately $11 billion, with over $1.7 billion allocated for investments in the past five years. Maritime transport remains particularly vital for remote communities, allowing access to essential goods, healthcare, and education services.
The two-day forum is focused on addressing pressing issues in both maritime and land transport. The first day will concentrate on maritime topics such as decarbonization, safety, and domestic shipping, while the second day will shift attention to land transport concerns including road safety, public transport, traffic management, urban planning, and inclusive mobility.
Emphasizing the need for collaborative decision-making, Tavo highlighted that open discussions and mutual understanding are crucial to crafting practical solutions aimed at fortifying Fiji’s transport system for the future. With a focus on these improvements, there is a hopeful outlook for a more efficient and resilient transport infrastructure that can better serve all Fijians.
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