A significant multi-million-dollar integrated tourism development project is set to commence on Nasaulevu Island. This initiative follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the island’s owners, Nakovacake Development Trust (NDT), and the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to create a master plan for the island.
Nasaulevu Island spans 747 acres and is located directly across from Denarau Port Marina and in proximity to Fantasy Island. Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai, chairman of NDT and Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, emphasized the significance of the MOU, stating it marks the beginning of a journey aimed at alleviating poverty for the island’s inhabitants and empowering them for future generations. He described the agreement as a transformative step forward, particularly with the large-scale tourism project planned for Nasaulevu.
The project is expected to kick off in May. Brigadier-General Gadai indicated that the preparation of the revised master plan for the Nasaulevu Integrated Tourism Development Project will take approximately six to nine months, including a feasibility study. During this time, discussions will commence regarding a proposed joint venture with FNPF and ADB. Following these negotiations, another joint venture MOU will be signed to initiate the project.
Cathy Marsh, ADB director general, noted that the initial budget for the master plan is set at $300,000, with plans to engage specialists and start development work by the end of this year. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, Minister for Public Works, Meteorology and Transport, expressed the government’s readiness to support landowners in advancing their economic participation.
NDT secretary Anare Naivutevute described the forthcoming master plan as unique, dubbing it the hub for the South Pacific. He mentioned that the ADB is interested in funding the construction of various facilities, including resorts, commercial and residential lots, as well as a cultural center. The goal of the cultural center is to entice tourists to Fiji, providing them with an immersive experience of Fiji’s culture, distinct from what they are already familiar with in their own countries.