Local Government and Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa has announced that the ministry is currently managing 48 development leases as part of its Informal Settlement Upgrading Program (ISUP). This update, shared during a recent parliamentary session, indicates that 44 of the leases are sourced from the iTaukei Land Trust Board, while the remaining four are from the State. These leases cover a total of 21 settlements in the Western Division, 14 in the Northern Division, and 13 in the Central Division of Fiji.
Looking ahead to the fiscal year 2024-2025, the ministry has outlined plans to issue new leases in three key areas: 113 residential lots in Cuvu, Sigatoka; 266 residential lots in Waidamudamu, Nausori; and 76 residential lots in Ledrusasa, Nadi. Currently, six of the development leases—including those in Sakoca, Tacirua, Tavela, Field 4, Tore, and Valewaquayaya—are under construction and are expected to be ready for title issuance in the next financial year.
Minister Nalumisa also mentioned the distribution of 235 grants under the First Home Ownership Initiative, aimed at supporting aspiring homebuyers this year. The ministry aims to process a total of 925 lots and provide grants to help approximately 1,160 families during the 2024-2025 and 2025-2026 financial years. This effort builds on previous efforts, such as the 49 families who received offer letters for property purchases from the Public Rental Board as of late January. Together, these initiatives are designed to meet over 75% of the annual housing demand, which is estimated at 1,600 units.
In addition, the minister reported that the ministry is actively planning 17 projects, with nine of these at the engineering design stage and 22 in preliminary planning. These developments highlight a proactive strategy to formalize informal settlements, enhance living conditions, and broaden housing accessibility throughout Fiji.
These initiatives reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to tackling housing challenges and raising living standards. As these projects unfold, there is a growing optimism that many families will soon find suitable and affordable housing options, contributing to improved community well-being and stability.
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