The tender process for Fiji’s affordable housing project has concluded, announced Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad.
Prof Prasad stated that the government was anticipating proposals from both local and international contractors.
During an appearance on The Lens@177 this week, Prof Prasad mentioned that a decision is expected to be reached soon. However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring the success of this housing public-private partnership.
“Similar to the experience with Aspen, which was poorly managed, where hospitals were handed over to a company without fulfilling the agreement,” Prof Prasad said.
“As I mentioned in Parliament, we aim to ensure that the housing PPP is a viable model, but the financial model must be meticulously examined. This scrutiny is necessary so that when the project is implemented, it provides affordable housing for various income categories. If successful, this could become the future model.”
“If we determine that the financial model is not viable, we will explore other methods and avenues to provide ample affordable housing for our people,” he added.
While Prof Prasad is unaware of the bidders for the project, he noted that it is a considerable undertaking, and they anticipated participation from international contractors.
To promote the project, Prof Prasad said they had organized roadshows in Australia, New Zealand, and India.
“We hope that there will be some strong contenders for the project and that the financial model they present will be sustainable. It should be a model that the government is comfortable with, and ultimately one that benefits the people,” he concluded.