Additional commercial space has been designated in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, to support economic growth. The Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, inaugurated a 1.14-hectare commercial lot at Qaraniqatio in Savusavu last Friday.
This new lot aims to fulfill the growing need for commercial space, generate job opportunities, invigorate local businesses, and enhance the overall economic environment in Savusavu. The 1.14 hectares of state land will feature nine or ten commercial blocks, alongside parking facilities, with an estimated 15 jobs created per commercial block.
Minister Vosarogo indicated that this initiative is expected to provide employment for up to 150 individuals within Savusavu, reducing the tendency for locals to seek work in Australia, New Zealand, or Suva. He emphasized the significance of public-private partnerships, showcasing the collaboration between the government and private sector to establish a sustainable growth platform for towns and regions.
He noted the lack of progress among various stakeholders in the last decade and stressed the necessity of supporting local businesses and investors while taking advantage of emerging opportunities. “Development does not happen automatically; it requires foundational infrastructure,” he stated.
Minister Vosarogo expressed gratitude to the Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji for their pivotal role in the project. He remarked on the commitment of the government to facilitate development in the northern region.
Sanya Dayal, director of Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji, highlighted that this partnership involved comprehensive feasibility studies aimed at achieving sustainable development goals and establishing a thriving commercial hub. He mentioned that the project’s second phase will focus on improvements to the Energy Fiji Limited grid, as well as enhancements to water access and road infrastructure for the commercial lots.