A new commercial space has been established in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, aimed at fostering economic development. Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, inaugurated a 1.14-hectare commercial lot at Qaraniqatio, Savusavu, last Friday.
This commercial lot will not only create essential commercial opportunities but is also expected to generate jobs and stimulate local businesses, thereby positively impacting the economic environment in Savusavu. The allocated land will feature nine or ten commercial blocks along with parking facilities. It is projected that each commercial block could create around 15 jobs, potentially employing 150 people in total within Savusavu Town.
Mr. Vosarogo emphasized the significance of this project in providing employment locally rather than seeing individuals seek work opportunities abroad in countries like Australia and New Zealand or even in the capital, Suva. He attributed the success of the initiative to the collaboration between public and private sectors, highlighting the importance of these partnerships in facilitating growth.
He noted that in the last decade, there has been limited progress from various stakeholders and stressed the necessity of supporting local businesses and investors. “Development does not always happen independently; it requires foundational infrastructure,” he remarked.
Mr. Vosarogo expressed gratitude to Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji for leading the project. He stated, “It is a privilege to be part of the government, and we are committed to ensuring development reaches the North.”
Sanya Dayal, director of Land Planning, Surveying and Engineering Consultants Pte Limited Fiji, mentioned that thorough feasibility studies were conducted through this partnership, aiming for sustainable development goals that would transform the area into a thriving commercial hub. He also shared that the second phase of the project would address developments related to Energy Fiji Limited’s grid, water supply, and road access for the commercial lots.