Thirty-six families awaiting their new homes in the Lagilagi Housing project are currently experiencing delays due to the submission of outdated documentation by some tenants. Timoci Naleba, General Manager of the Public Rental Board (PRB), clarified that these delays necessitate additional verification processes to confirm ownership and avoid potential disputes, particularly given the long-term residents in the Lagilagi area.
Mr. Naleba underscored the importance of conducting thorough due diligence, stating, “We don’t want to give flats to those who have recently moved in. We need to prioritize long-term residents—those who have been residing there for over 10 years.”
Despite the hold-up, he expressed optimism regarding the progress of document verification, which has now been completed. The PRB is preparing for an induction exercise for the families, outlining the “strata title ownership” model. This system allows tenants to own their flats while the PRB maintains the common areas, thus shifting the responsibility of interior maintenance to the tenants.
Naleba noted that by the end of September, most families should be able to move into their new homes, depending on the successful completion of their documentation and financial assessments that demonstrate their capability to manage ownership responsibilities.
This housing initiative is a crucial part of the government’s efforts to tackle the shortage of affordable housing and improve living conditions for low-income families. Although the transition from the People’s Community Network to the PRB has posed challenges, the recent updates suggest a strong commitment to enhancing housing situations in Fiji, particularly for those eagerly awaiting stable homes.
Overall, the PRB’s continuous efforts to assist these families highlight a proactive approach to resolving the housing crisis, offering hope for improved living standards for many in the community.
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