Fiji’s Housing Initiative: A Boost for Families in Need!

Local Government and Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa disclosed that the ministry oversees 48 development leases as part of the Informal Settlement Upgrading Program (ISUP). He made this announcement during a parliamentary session, indicating that the collection includes 44 leases from the iTaukei Land Trust Board and four from the State. These leases span 21 settlements in the Western Division, 14 in the Northern Division, and 13 in the Central Division.

For the financial year 2024-2025, the ministry has plans to issue new leases in three priority areas: 113 residential lots in Cuvu, Sigatoka; 266 residential lots in Waidamudamu, Nausori; and 76 residential lots in Ledrusasa, Nadi. Currently, six of the ministry’s development leases—including those in Sakoca, Tacirua, Tavela, Field 4, Tore, and Valewaquayaya—are in various stages of construction and are expected to be ready for title issuance in the next financial year.

Minister Nalumisa also highlighted the provision of 235 grants under the First Home Ownership Initiative to support homebuyers this year, with a goal of processing a total of 925 lots and distributing the grants to assist around 1,160 families over the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 financial years. This is in addition to 49 families who received offer letters for property purchases through the Public Rental Board by late January. Collectively, these initiatives aim to meet over 75% of the annual demand for new housing, which is projected at 1,600 units.

Moreover, the minister reported that the ministry is currently engaged in planning for 17 projects, with nine projects at the engineering design phase and another 22 in preliminary planning stages. These undertakings signify a comprehensive approach to formalizing informal settlements, improving living conditions, and increasing access to housing in Fiji.

These efforts demonstrate the government’s commitment to addressing Hawaii’s housing challenges and improving living standards for its citizens. As more developments progress, there is hope that many families will find suitable and affordable housing solutions in the near future.