The government is in the process of identifying and developing 266 acres of land in the Central and Western divisions to construct 3,000 climate-resilient housing units capable of withstanding Category 5 cyclones. This announcement was made on Friday by Shaheen Ali, the permanent secretary for Trade, Co-operatives, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Communications, during the Construction Industry Council Conference held at the Fiji National University, Namaka Campus, in Nadi.
Mr. Ali highlighted the significance of the conference theme, “Affordable Housing in Fiji,” stating that it is imperative to ensure housing is deemed a right for every Fijian and not merely a privilege. He emphasized the construction industry’s role in building not just structures, but homes and communities that provide safe, secure, and affordable living conditions for all citizens.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to addressing the housing sector’s challenges and its essential role in the well-being of citizens and the nation’s economic growth. Aligned with the Fiji National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050, the government aims to revitalize the construction industry to amplify its economic contribution while ensuring no one is left behind regarding housing needs.
Mr. Ali pointed out that the demand for affordable housing in Fiji is rising due to rapid urbanization and a predominantly young population. He remarked that the housing sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP increased from 4.2% in 2011 to 5.6% in 2018, underlining its importance. To maintain this upward trajectory, the government is dedicated to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly building practices that resonate with global sustainability trends.
In collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) through a public-private partnership, the government is working towards providing affordable and high-quality housing options for its citizens.