The reconstruction of the Tamavua-i-wai bridge in Fiji will mark the introduction of the country’s first earthquake-resilient bridge, significantly enhancing economic productivity, according to Japanese Ambassador Rokuichiro Michii. He spoke during an exchange of notes ceremony for additional funding for the project, which took place alongside Public Works and Transportation Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau on Thursday.
Ambassador Michii announced that JP¥ 961 million (approximately $14.47 million) has been allocated for the reconstruction of the two-lane bridge. He noted that this additional funding will supplement the F$60 million agreement initially established in 2022, raising the total cost of design and reconstruction to about F$70 million.
“This signing marks the fourth or fifth agreement to be formalized this month and next, collectively valued at around $129.5 million,” he added. Michii emphasized the importance of roads and bridges as vital components of economic and social development, describing them as the lifeblood of the nation.
With no alternative land route across the Tamavua-i-wai River, he explained that the quick completion of this project is essential given its importance to trade, national development, tourism, and the broader economy. Once finished, the new bridge will join the existing structure, creating a four-lane bridge that could integrate with a future four-lane Suva to Lami motorway.
In his remarks, Minister Ro Filipe described the occasion as a significant milestone in infrastructure development. He stated that the amendment for the Tamavua-i-wai bridge would amount to F$25 million, or about 3 billion Japanese yen.
He stressed the role of road infrastructure as a fundamental link to employment markets and services, highlighting that roads should be viewed not merely as physical pathways, but as essential drivers of economic growth. Ro Filipe recognized the Tamavua-i-wai bridge as a critical connection within the Suva-Lami corridor and expressed concern over the reliance on a single route into Suva, advocating for the exploration of alternative routes from areas such as Veisari, Wailekutu, and the Delainavesi Road to Wailoku.