Additional commercial space has been designated in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, to support economic growth. Last Friday, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, inaugurated a 1.14-hectare commercial lot at Qaraniqatio in Savusavu.
This new lot is expected to supply essential commercial space, create job opportunities, and stimulate local businesses, thereby enhancing the economic prospects of Savusavu. The 1.14 hectares of state land will feature nine or ten commercial blocks along with parking facilities. Each commercial space is anticipated to generate about 15 jobs, translating to a total of 150 jobs within Savusavu Town.
Mr. Vosarogo emphasized that this initiative would encourage local employment rather than allowing residents to seek work abroad or in Suva. He remarked, “This project illustrates the potential of public-private partnerships, bringing together government and private sectors to create a viable growth platform in towns and regions.”
He noted that there has been minimal progress among various stakeholders over the past decade. Vosarogo underscored the significance of supporting local businesses and investors while seizing available opportunities. He reiterated that development requires foundational infrastructure to be established first.
He expressed gratitude towards Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji for leading the project. “It is an honor to work with the Government and ensure development reaches the North,” he stated.
Sanya Dayal, director of Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji, added that through this partnership, all necessary feasibility studies were conducted to meet sustainable development goals and establish a vibrant commercial center in the future. He also noted that phase two of the project would involve improvements to the Energy Fiji Limited grid, water supply, and roads for the commercial lots.