Investment Boost: New Zealand’s $15 Million Commitment to Affordable Housing in Fiji

The Ministry of Housing in Fiji has partnered with New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs and Trade (NZ MFAT) to enhance socio-economic conditions for low-income families by expanding access to affordable and high-quality housing. Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, announced that the New Zealand government is committing over NZ$15 million (FJ$20.30 million) to this initiative, including NZ$1.75 million (FJ$2.36 million) directly designated for the Ministry of Housing.

This funding will bolster technical assistance, strategic planning, and institutional strengthening, alongside the development of a national housing database over the next three years. Nalumisa noted that this investment will enable the ministry to more effectively distribute resources to both new and ongoing housing projects.

Additionally, the Model Towns Charitable Trust will receive NZ$6,170,533 (FJ$8.4 million), with NZ$3.6 million (FJ$4.87 million) specifically allocated to the Revitalising Informal Settlements and their Environments (RISE) Programme. This program aims to improve sanitation management in six informal settlements in the greater Suva area.

The government also plans to provide technical support to refine policies and planning in line with the ministry’s regulations, alongside finalizing a national housing policy. Financial assistance will further facilitate the Ministry’s Strategic Plan for 2025–2029.

This partnership, built on mutual trust between NZ MFAT and the Ministry of Housing, signifies a commitment to enhancing institutional collaboration, boosting capacity, and improving institutional effectiveness.

The investment reflects a larger commitment to improving living standards in Fiji, with the aim of ensuring that all Fijians, particularly those in vulnerable situations, can access better housing and sanitation facilities. This collaborative effort not only addresses immediate housing concerns but also lays the groundwork for sustainable development in the future.

In conclusion, this initiative showcases a hopeful step towards collective improvements in the community and the economy. By prioritizing affordable housing and better sanitation, the collaboration between New Zealand and Fiji promises to create lasting positive change that benefits many families across the region.