The Suva City Council is prioritizing the repair and redevelopment of existing public facilities to enhance services for its residents. Key projects currently in progress include the redevelopment of the Raiwaqa Market, upgrades to bus terminals, and essential roadworks, as well as maintenance of various public amenities.
These initiatives align with the Government’s aim to strengthen municipal councils by providing new funding and enhanced operational support. Acting Suva City Council CEO Tevita Boseiwaqa highlighted the council’s focus on addressing deteriorating infrastructure throughout the city. He stated, “Most of the existing facilities need to be repaired, need maintenance, or the areas need to be redeveloped. The only major project in place now is the Raiwaqa Market, for which we have awarded the tender and are discussing the way forward.”
The council is giving priority to projects that have a direct impact on commuters, vendors, and the general public. For instance, improvements have been made to the roads leading into bus terminals, and plans are underway to construct shelters for travelers heading west and north, ensuring they have adequate facilities before boarding buses.
Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa announced that newly obtained funding will enable councils to enhance service delivery by acquiring better equipment. “The $12.5 million is mainly for the acquisition of machinery such as garbage trucks, collection trucks, compactor trucks, excavators, and other equipment, depending on the needs of each municipality,” he stated.
The Ministry will continue conducting assessments to ensure that councils receive machinery suited to their needs, thereby assisting Suva City Council in its phased redevelopment efforts across the capital. This focus on revitalizing public infrastructure not only aims to improve the quality of life for Suva’s residents but also showcases a commitment to building a more resilient urban environment.
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