The Mataqali o Natusara has recently secured a substantial rental agreement exceeding one million dollars for a piece of land designated for the Kokomo hotel project. This initiative started with the efforts of Radike Qereqeretabua, focusing on the development of tourism in the region.
Since the 1980s, Qereqeretabua has been actively involved with the local community, noting the exceptional beauty of their lands yet observing many young individuals from Natusara migrating to Suva for education and employment opportunities. To counter this trend, Qereqeretabua proposes establishing further educational and employment opportunities in their home village, encouraging local youth to remain in the area.
The primary school serving the Natusara community, the Natusara Primary School, has suffered over the years due to infrastructure issues that impact student attendance rates during heavy rains. Qereqeretabua aims to foster educational growth by advocating for contemporary vocational training that draws on local opportunities and increases family participation in community work.
Capitalizing on the natural assets of areas like Yaukuve Levu, Qereqeretabua suggests building a hotel aimed not just at travelers, especially backpackers, but at broadening access to sustainable tourism that could significantly impact the local economy. He seeks a developer to realize this project and hopes that it not only serves the tourism sector but also provides revenue for community initiatives.
With significant backing from the government, including statements from Paula Cirikiyasawa, the Minister of Lands and Mineral Resources, this initiative is expected to yield positive growth for the Natusara community. The approval indicates a promising future for investment, which is anticipated to lead to further development in education, job creation, and enhanced infrastructure for the community.
This agreement not only represents a financial boon for the Mataqali o Natusara, but also symbolizes a hopeful shift towards revitalizing local economies through responsible development. The prospect of ongoing community engagement in tourism can inspire transformative outcomes, promoting sustainability and self-sufficiency.
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