Additional commercial space has been designated in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, to support economic development. Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, inaugurated a 1.14 hectare commercial lot at Qaraniqatio in Savusavu last Friday.
This new site is expected to not only provide essential commercial space but also generate jobs, invigorate local businesses, and enhance the overall economic situation in Savusavu. The 1.14 hectares of state-owned land will accommodate nine or ten commercial blocks along with parking facilities, creating approximately 15 jobs per commercial space.
Mr. Vosarogo stated that this initiative could result in jobs for around 150 people in Savusavu, reducing the need for many to seek employment abroad in countries like Australia, New Zealand, or even in Suva. He emphasized the significance of public and private partnerships, highlighting the collaboration between the government and private sector to foster growth in various regions.
He noted a lack of progress among stakeholders in the last decade and stressed the need to support local businesses and investors. “Development does not come automatically; essential infrastructure must be established first,” he remarked.
Mr. Vosarogo expressed gratitude to Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji for their leadership in the project. He affirmed the government’s commitment to advancing development in the northern regions.
Sanya Dayal, director of Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji, mentioned that this partnership facilitated comprehensive feasibility studies aimed at promoting sustainable development goals to establish a prosperous commercial hub in the future. He also indicated that the next phase of the project would involve improvements to the Energy Fiji Limited grid, along with enhancements to water supply and road access for the commercial lots.