Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica has expressed serious concerns over the state of Fiji’s construction industry, citing years of poor regulation and a lack of support for architects, engineers, and building designers. He noted that while there are boards for these professionals, they have not been functional, allowing issues to persist for too long.
To address these challenges, the government is actively working on a new system designed to improve building permit processes without creating monopolies, ensuring that all stakeholders involved in the construction process can continue to operate. Kamikamica emphasized the importance of not disadvantaging those who genuinely contribute to the sector.
He acknowledged the presence of building designers in various regions across the country, including Labasa, Rakiraki, and Tavua, underscoring the need for the new system to cater to their roles. Local investors are encouraged to utilize Investment Fiji for their projects, reinforcing that this support is intended for both international and local entrepreneurs.
Kamikamica’s commitment to enhancing the construction industry aligns with recent discussions within the engineering community about the critical need for improvements and compliance in building standards, particularly concerning the quality of steel reinforcement. Terence Erasito, president of Engineers Fiji, has raised concerns about the quality of locally manufactured steel used in construction, highlighting the potential dangers of using substandard materials in buildings. This is particularly relevant given the seismic risks that Fiji faces; ensuring that structures are built to adhere to the Fiji National Building Code—and in line with New Zealand standards—is crucial for occupant safety during earthquakes.
The collective acknowledgment of these issues by government officials and engineering professionals presents a hopeful outlook for bolstering Fiji’s construction regulatory framework. As the government seeks to implement effective reforms, the opportunities for local engineers and designers to shape a more resilient built environment could be significant, fostering safety and growth in the sector.
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