The residents of Koro have been presented with a valuable opportunity to voice their developmental concerns and other issues. This opportunity arose when Justice Minister Siromi Turaga led a delegation of 40 members to the island last week, marking the largest ministerial visit to Koro. The visit allowed local residents to engage directly with Cabinet ministers on pressing matters.
During the discussions, villagers highlighted the poor condition of the island’s roads and the necessity for vehicle repair services. District officer Salanieta Baleigau described the roads as severely lacking and noted the constant need for vehicle repairs. In response, the Ministry of Maritime and Rural Development plans to establish the Naunu Tyre Centre project this fiscal year to address vehicle needs on the island. Baleigau explained that transporting a vehicle to the mainland for repairs can cost owners between $500 and $600 one way, making local service critical for the approximately 30 vehicles on Koro.
Additionally, Baleigau mentioned that the Fiji Roads Authority has allocated $2.1 million for this financial year to maintain and improve key crossings on the island. She pointed out that the problem of poor road conditions has been ongoing and largely ignored for years.
Another matter raised during the session was the lack of government vehicles, which are essential for supporting various government operations on Koro. There are only four vehicles available across several government stations, including agriculture, health, and police, which limits their ability to perform necessary tasks. With just one vehicle available for servicing at a time, service delivery is impacted significantly.
In terms of healthcare, three facilities operate on the island, but staffing issues persist. The Nacamaki Nursing Station is currently vacant, and the Nabasovi station has been without staff for months. The Nasau station is understaffed, further hindering service delivery in the area.
Education remains a focus for Koro, with Koro High School achieving impressive pass rates of 70 percent for Year 12 and 93 percent for Year 13 in national examinations last year. With a goal of achieving an 80 percent pass rate for Year 12 and a 100 percent for Year 13 this year, the school is looking to build on its success.
Several development projects are in the pipeline, including the ongoing construction of a school chapel supported by local alumni and parents. However, the school faces challenges, such as inadequate playground space for activities and the need for refurbishment of teacher accommodations.
Plans for additional developments include a proposed Nabuna jetty to address berthing issues, as well as a potential five-star hotel aimed at boosting local economy and employment opportunities. Furthermore, a Koro Ice Plant and Fisheries Station is planned for construction, which will be situated between Tavua and Nabasovi Village.