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 designed to withstand Category 5 cyclones. This initiative was announced 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 Fiji National University in Namaka, Nadi.
Ali emphasized the significance of the theme “Affordable Housing in Fiji,” highlighting the necessity of ensuring housing is not just accessible but also recognized as a fundamental right for every Fijian. He pointed out that the construction industry goes beyond merely creating structures; it involves building homes and communities while providing all Fijians with access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.
The government is reaffirming its commitment to achieving this crucial goal, which is essential for citizens’ well-being and the nation’s economic growth. In line with the Fiji National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050, the government aims to revitalize the construction sector to enhance its economic contributions and ensure equitable access to housing.
Ali acknowledged the increasing demand for affordable housing in Fiji due to rapid urbanization and a younger population, stating that housing should be a right, not a privilege. He urged collaboration to find sustainable solutions to guarantee all Fijians can access affordable, quality housing. The contribution of the housing sector to Fiji’s GDP rose from 4.2% in 2011 to 5.6% in 2018, demonstrating its importance.
To build on this progress, the government is dedicated to promoting sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices that reflect global sustainability trends. Furthermore, the government is partnering with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to enhance the availability of affordable, high-quality housing options through a public-private partnership initiative.