A recent social survey by the Housing Ministry reveals that a significant number of individuals living in squatter or informal settlements are financially stable enough to secure proper housing. Manasa Lesuma, the permanent secretary of the Housing Ministry, noted that while some residents genuinely face financial challenges, many others are capable of affording better living conditions.
Lesuma indicated that the survey showed many people choose to remain in informal settlements despite their financial ability to move. He emphasized that relocating these residents is complicated, as the responsibility ultimately lies with the landowners rather than the government.
The government is pursuing a new initiative aimed at relocating individuals from these settlements, including a pilot project focused on the Veidogo settlement in Vatuwaqa. Lesuma mentioned a partnership with Habitat for Humanity to assist in this relocation effort.
He explained that a variety of approaches would be employed in the relocation process, including conducting social surveys to assess the financial status of families. This will help identify those who genuinely need relocation versus those who may be taking advantage of the system. Lesuma pointed out that some individuals living in informal settlements are financially secure, owning rental properties elsewhere, and these individuals are the ones targeted for eviction by landlords.
Furthermore, he stated that evictions will only be possible in settlements where the government has secured development approvals. These upgraded settlements feature subdivided lots, roads that comply with Fiji Roads Authority standards, and adequate utility services.
Lesuma highlighted the increasing urban congestion along the Suva-Nausori corridor as a consequence of rural-to-urban migration, noting that there are nearly 300 informal settlements throughout Fiji and stressing the need to enhance conditions in these areas.