The NaVualiku initiative, part of the Fiji Tourism Development Programme for Vanua Levu, was officially launched by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka at Wasawasa Lodge in Savusavu on Friday. This initiative is a collaborative project between the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and the World Bank, with a significant financial commitment.
Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted that the World Bank is dedicating $400 million over the next ten years to bolster economic growth in the Northern Division. He emphasized the initiative’s aim to transform Vanua Levu into a vibrant tourism hub that stimulates economic growth, generates meaningful employment, and attracts investments both domestically and internationally.
Rabuka noted that tourism is a critical component of Fiji’s economy, citing recent data from the Reserve Bank of Fiji, which indicated strong visitor arrivals, with nearly 100,000 tourists in July and over 94,000 in August. These statistics demonstrate Fiji’s appeal as a favored destination for holidaymakers and business travelers alike.
He further asserted that enhancing tourism in the North would lead to job creation, stimulate local businesses, and draw essential investments to the region. The goal of this initiative is to develop the necessary infrastructure and services to attract more visitors to the Northern Division and distribute the benefits of Fiji’s robust tourism industry throughout the community.
Rabuka acknowledged the economic challenges in the Northern Division, where the poverty rate hovers around 29 percent, predominantly affecting rural areas. Despite having the lowest multidimensional poverty rate in the country at 26 percent, Rabuka stressed the need for continued efforts to improve the quality of life for all citizens.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka pointed out that popular tourist areas like Nadi, Denarau, Yasawas, Mamanucas, and the Coral Coast attract about 80 percent of all visitors, whereas the North only receives around four percent. This contrast underscores the untapped potential of Vanua Levu, which the NaVualiku programme seeks to exploit.
Gavoka added that the initiative also aims to improve the quality of life for local residents and enhance infrastructure. Other government officials were present at the launch, including the Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka; the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh; the Minister for iTaukei Affairs, Ifereimi Vasu; and the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa.
Following the launch, Prime Minister Rabuka is scheduled to open the NaVualiku project office at JKS Holdings Building in Savusavu on Saturday. World Bank Group country manager for Fiji, Stefano Mocci, remarked that this initiative represents a novel approach in the Pacific, reflecting the World Bank’s confidence in Fiji’s ability to implement such a large-scale and complex program effectively.