Investment consultant Sandeep Singh has emphasized the urgent need for stringent measures to curb the expansion of informal settlements in Fiji. His remarks came during the consultation for the draft National Housing Policy 2024-2030 at the Suva Civic Centre on Wednesday.
Singh stated, “We don’t want to create a disaster because urban migration is an ongoing issue, not just in Fiji but in other countries as well. Without strict measures, we won’t be able to address this problem.” He proposed implementing a program under the policy that would provide assistance to people who wish to return to their place of origin as a means to reduce informal settlements.
He highlighted that 24 percent of Fiji’s urban area consists of informal settlements, with approximately 250 such areas identified. Singh raised concerns regarding the consequences of formalizing these informal settlements, suggesting that doing so might encourage their proliferation.
Additionally, Singh pointed out the issue of undeveloped land along the Nadi to Lautoka corridor, which is leased by individuals who do not utilize the land, typically holding it until its value increases. He questioned whether the policy discussions had considered making land more accessible for housing development instead of searching for new areas.
Keith Hornby, a housing adviser from New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, noted the diverse nature of informal housing in Fiji. He explained that informal settlement situations can range from genuine squatters occupying land without permission to middle-class individuals who unwittingly occupy properties that have collapsed due to failed development projects.
Hornby stressed that addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. He acknowledged that many individuals cannot afford housing and underscored the need to improve the supply of social housing through the Public Rental Board and various NGOs, many of which have struggled to maintain their existing stock over the years.