Fiji is grappling with significant challenges related to housing insecurity and the shortage of local leadership amid recent political developments. While the recent visit of Indian President Droupadi Murmu has captured public attention, the ongoing resumption of Parliament coincides with deeper issues that require urgent action.
Government agencies have acknowledged that funding constraints and resistance from some occupants of informal settlements have hindered resettlement efforts. Currently, more than 250 informal settlements exist across state, iTaukei, and freehold land in Fiji. A notable concern includes discussions regarding the possible eviction of around 100 families from Waisasa Settlement in Tacirua, although this site is not currently included in active development projects.
Since 2010, the iTaukei Land Trust Board has issued over 40 land development leases aimed at relocating squatters, yet tangible outcomes from resettlement efforts have remained limited. In response, the Public Rental Board (PRB) has shifted focus to smaller-scale redevelopments to provide immediate housing options. Recently, 36 Lagilagi units at Jittu Estate in Raiwaqa, which had been unoccupied, have been refurbished for rental or purchase, with plans to incorporate poverty-alleviation supports for tenants wishing to return to rural settings.
Accompanying these housing issues is a significant governance challenge regarding the vacancy of chiefly and customary roles within the vanua. Over 6,000 positions remain unfilled, with occupancy at around 47% in recent years. The iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission is working to fill these vacancies through province-by-province consultations, achieving about an 80% success rate in recent rounds. This initiative is crucial as customary leaders play a vital role in land negotiations and community consent, and the lack of leadership can impede progress on housing and resettlement.
To address these intertwined problems effectively, practical recommendations have been proposed. Coordination across governmental ministries, landowners, and traditional institutions is essential to integrate vanua leaders into planning from the beginning. Transparent and community-led consultations are necessary to navigate any future evictions or resettlement actions, helping to identify culturally appropriate options for affected families.
Moreover, utilizing small redevelopments such as the Jittu Estate project as pilot programs can demonstrate effective standards, resources for tenants, and links to livelihood supports. Engaging in blended financing—including government funds and development partnerships—can also enhance the delivery of affordable housing units.
Positive developments include reported successes in filling many Bose Vanua positions and advancing small housing pilots, indicating potential progress. These efforts can rebuild trust and lay the foundation for larger-scale solutions, demonstrating that systematic changes can yield effective outcomes.
As Fiji continues to navigate these challenges, a positive note emerges from proactive strategies aimed at enhancing local governance and addressing housing needs. Aligning traditional leadership with housing initiatives forms a pathway toward a more sustainable and equitable future for communities across the nation.
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