The $US200 million (FJ$466 million) Vualiku project aims to unlock the tourism potential of Vanua Levu in Fiji and bring transformative changes to the region’s tourism sector. This ambitious initiative was outlined by Salaseini Daunabuna, the Permanent Secretary for Tourism and Civil Aviation, during a conference held in Nadi. The conference focused on the future of Technical and Vocational Education and Training and Higher Education, emphasizing the importance of sustainable growth.

Daunabuna explained that the Vualiku project will enhance how visitors experience key destinations throughout Fiji, focusing on sustainable practices and community engagement. The project will be implemented in phases, with the first phase expected to cost $US61.5 million (FJ$143 million) and cover foundational work over the next few years.

The initiative’s multifaceted approach includes three main components aimed at fostering sustainable tourism growth:

1. Developing Sustainable Tourism (DST) – Allocated $US12.45 million (FJ$29 million), focusing on overcoming barriers and promoting sustainable tourism practices through an integrated tourism masterplan and support for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

2. Building Resilient Tourism Infrastructure (BSTI) – With a budget of $US40.05 million (FJ$93.41 million), this component will focus on enhancing key infrastructure in tourism hubs such as Savusavu, Labasa, and Taveuni.

3. Enhancing Tourism Capacity (ETC) – This aspect aims to boost stakeholder capacity and ensure effective project management over time.

The project underscores the critical role of collaboration between governmental bodies, civil society, and the private sector to bring the initiatives to fruition. Fiji welcomes over a million visitors annually, and Ms. Daunabuna emphasized that community engagement will be fundamental to the project’s overall success.

Furthermore, the Vualiku project aligns with earlier efforts under the Na Vualiku Project, which was launched by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, aiming to establish an integrated tourism master plan for Vanua Levu. This plan also emphasizes addressing the region’s socioeconomic needs and improving infrastructure to draw more tourists.

In summary, the Vualiku project represents a significant investment in the future of Fiji’s tourism sector, paving the way for sustainable economic growth and improved livelihoods for local communities. The collaboration across sectors and focus on sustainable development are hopeful signs for the region’s economic landscape, heralding an exciting summer for tourism in Vanua Levu.