A quarter of Fiji’s population resides in informal settlements located in various towns and cities throughout the country. Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Community Development, stated that this data was gathered from over 250 informal settlements nationwide.
The Ministry is partnering with various organizations to implement urgent improvements in these informal areas. Nalumisa noted that the Ministry intends to conduct surveys to better comprehend the living conditions of those in informal settlements. This effort aims to identify individuals who may have the means to purchase land and housing, allowing them to transition out of these settlements.
The Ministry is committed to ensuring that all Fijians have access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing, while also aiming to revitalize informal settlements across Fiji. Nalumisa announced that $1 million has been allocated for the fiscal year 2023-2024, with an additional $1 million planned for the 2024-2025 budget.
Moreover, the Ministry is undertaking institutional reforms by reviewing the National Housing Policy established in 2011. This review is intended to tackle the challenges posed by rapid urban growth and to enhance land development planning.
Nalumisa cautioned Fijians against purchasing properties within informal settlements. This warning follows an incident where an individual bought a home in an informal settlement for $10,000 in cash, lacking any formal ownership documentation. The original landowner later emerged, denying knowledge of the sale and demanding the buyer vacate the property.
The Ministry urged prospective homebuyers to remain vigilant when considering properties in informal settlements, citing the risk of eviction without notice, which could lead to significant financial losses and homelessness. They also highlighted that these areas often lack basic amenities such as electricity, water, and sanitation, severely affecting residents’ quality of life and health.
The Ministry strongly advises potential buyers to focus on properties situated in well-established and legally recognized neighborhoods.
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