A recent survey conducted by the Housing Ministry has revealed that a significant number of individuals living in squatter or informal settlements are financially stable enough to secure proper housing. Permanent Secretary Manasa Lesuma acknowledged that while some residents face genuine financial challenges, many others have the means to afford better living conditions but still choose to remain in these informal settlements.
This surprising finding raises important questions about the government’s strategy in dealing with informal housing. Mr. Lesuma suggested that many residents could afford proper housing yet opt to stay in their current situations. This highlights the necessity for the government to reassess its approach to informal settlements.
In response to this issue, the government is developing a new initiative focused on relocating residents from these informal areas. A pilot project is underway for the relocation of the Veidogo settlement in Vatuwaqa, alongside a separate partnership with Habitat for Humanity aimed at additional relocation efforts.
Lesuma emphasized the importance of social surveys to evaluate a family’s earning capacity, identifying those genuinely in need of assistance and those potentially misusing the system. He noted that individuals who are financially stable yet continue residing in informal settlements, even owning rental properties elsewhere, would be the primary focus for eviction by landlords.
These settlements have been upgraded, with subdivided lots offering proper roads and utility services that meet local standards. The population shift from rural areas to urban centers has led to congestion in the Suva-Nausori corridor, contributing to pressure on urban infrastructure and housing resources.
With close to 300 informal settlements across Fiji, the government faces challenges in upgrading these areas to improve housing and sanitation conditions. The results of the survey have significant implications for policy decisions and the distribution of resources. It is crucial for policymakers to differentiate between those who need genuine assistance and those who are capable of better housing but choose otherwise.
The success of the Housing Ministry’s initiatives will largely depend on understanding the complexities behind informal settlements and addressing the diverse needs of all stakeholders involved.