A significant multi-million-dollar integrated tourism development project is on the horizon for Nasaulevu Island. The announcement follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the island’s owners, Nakovacake Development Trust (NDT), and both the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), which outlines a master plan for the island.
Nasaulevu Island spans approximately 747 acres and is situated across from Denarau Port Marina, not far from Fantasy Island. Brigadier-General Manoa Gadai, chairman of NDT and commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Joint Task Force, stated that the MOU represents the onset of a journey aimed at alleviating poverty for the island’s residents and empowering them and future generations. This transformative project is anticipated to commence next May.
Gadai explained that the provision of the Revised Masterplan for the Nasaulevu Integrated Tourism Development Project will take about six to nine months and will include a feasibility study. During this period, discussions will begin on forming a joint venture with FNPF and ADB. Following the confirmation of joint venture options, a further MOU will be signed to initiate the project.
The director general of ADB, Cathy Marsh, revealed that the initial budget for the master plan is set at $300,000, with plans to deploy specialists to start development work before the year’s end. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Public Works, Meteorology, and Transport, expressed the government’s commitment to supporting landowners in enhancing their economic participation.
NDT secretary Anare Naivutevute emphasized that the master plan would be unique, dubbing the island a hub for the South Pacific. He further noted that ADB is interested in financing the construction of several key facilities, including resorts, commercial lots, residential lots, and a cultural center. The cultural center aims to attract more tourists by providing them with a deeper understanding of Fijian culture and heritage, offering experiences that resonate with their own backgrounds.