Additional commercial space has been designated in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, to enhance economic growth. Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, officially opened a 1.14-hectare commercial lot at Qaraniqatio in Savusavu last Friday.
This new lot aims to address the demand for commercial space while generating employment, stimulating local businesses, and improving the overall economic environment in Savusavu. The state land will feature nine or ten commercial blocks along with parking facilities. It is projected that approximately 15 jobs will be created per commercial block, leading to an estimated total of 150 jobs for the local community.
Mr. Vosarogo emphasized the significance of providing job opportunities in Savusavu, reducing the need for locals to seek employment abroad in countries like Australia and New Zealand or even in the capital, Suva. He remarked that this development exemplifies the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in fostering growth and enhancing local economies.
He pointed out that there has been limited progress among various stakeholders over the past decade and underscored the necessity of supporting local businesses and investors to leverage opportunities. Vosarogo noted the critical role of infrastructure in facilitating development.
He also expressed gratitude to Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji for their leading role in the project. “Being part of the Government, we are dedicated to ensuring that development reaches the North,” he stated.
Sanya Dayal, the director of Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji, mentioned that the partnership conducted all necessary feasibility studies to promote sustainable development goals, aiming to create a vibrant commercial center in the future. He added that the second phase of the project will involve improvements to the Energy Fiji Limited grid, along with enhancements to water supply and road infrastructure for the commercial lots.