The Fijian government’s mid- to long-term strategy aims to ensure that affordable housing is accessible to all citizens. During a recent meeting with stakeholders and residents in Nadawa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, emphasized the Coalition Government’s dedication to tackling fundamental challenges within informal settlements.
Professor Prasad mentioned that part of the upcoming National Development Plan will include mechanisms and strategies to address the broader issue of informal settlements. He noted, “I don’t want to promise today that the issues will be resolved tomorrow. We want to understand the situation well, considering what has transpired over the last 25 years and what previous agreements were in place.”
During the meeting, he outlined potential solutions for long-standing issues such as residents obtaining proper titles, improving drainage, and ensuring access to essential utility services like sewage, electricity, and water. Attendees included representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Housing, Nasinu Land Purchase & Housing Co-operative Ltd, and local area representatives.
Professor Prasad proposed that further discussions with all relevant stakeholders take place to find amicable solutions that will benefit the residents.