The Ministry of Housing has announced plans to relocate 1,062 households facing eviction from various informal settlements across Fiji, as revealed by Line Minister Maciu Nalumisa in a recent Parliament session. Among the affected areas are the Veidogo Settlement, Nadiri Settlement in Tacirua, and households associated with the Fiji Muslim League.
To address this urgent situation, the Ministry has developed a comprehensive five-year Relocation and Resettlement Policy, along with Standard Operating Procedures and a detailed Plan specifically for those receiving eviction notices this financial year. The Ministry aims to facilitate the immediate relocation process by collaborating closely with other government agencies, including the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) and the Ministry of Lands.
In addition to these immediate measures, Minister Nalumisa outlined that the Ministry currently manages 48 development leases as part of the Informal Settlement Upgrading Programme (ISUP), which encompasses settlements across various divisions of Fiji. The plan includes issuing leases for new residential lots in Cuvu, Waidamudamu, and Ledrusasa during the 2024-2025 financial year.
The ISUP operates through a structured process that includes phases such as consultancy, civil works, and the issuance of titles. In 2025-2026, additional development leases are anticipated to be ready for title issuance.
This initiative represents a significant effort by the government to address housing instability and to support vulnerable communities facing eviction, promoting a collaborative approach that aims not only to meet immediate housing needs but also to contribute to long-term community resilience and security.
The government’s proactive measures and willingness to engage with affected families reflect a compassionate approach to navigating these challenges, ensuring that the needs of those impacted are met while working towards sustainable housing solutions across Fiji.
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