The government is in the process of identifying and developing 266 acres of land across the Central and Western divisions to construct 3,000 climate-resilient housing units designed to withstand 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, at the Construction Industry Council Conference held at the Fiji National University’s Namaka Campus in Nadi.
Ali emphasized the relevance of the theme “Affordable Housing in Fiji,” highlighting the joint efforts to ensure that housing is recognized as a fundamental right for every Fijian. He explained that the construction industry encompasses more than just building structures; it involves creating homes, fostering communities, and guaranteeing that all Fijians have access to safe, secure, and affordable housing.
He reiterated the government’s dedication to this crucial objective, which is essential for the well-being of citizens and economic growth. In alignment with the Fiji National Development Plan 2025-2029 and Vision 2050, the government aims to revitalize the construction sector to bolster its economic contributions and ensure that housing is accessible to all.
Ali noted the rising demand for affordable housing in Fiji, driven by rapid urbanization and a younger population, which pose unique challenges. He stated that housing must remain a right rather than a privilege and called for collaborative efforts to develop sustainable solutions that provide all Fijians with access to affordable, quality housing.
He shared that the housing sector’s contribution to Fiji’s GDP increased from 4.2 percent in 2011 to 5.6 percent in 2018, highlighting its importance. To maintain this growth, the government is committed to promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly building practices that align with global sustainability trends.
Additionally, through a public-private partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the government is working towards offering affordable, high-quality housing options.