Work will commence on the integrated tourism master plan for the North in April 2025 as part of the Fiji Tourism Development program, known as the ‘Na Vualiku Project’. This initiative aims to provide a long-term forecast for tourism development in Vanua Levu.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka, announced that the project is currently in its first phase, valued at approximately $61.5 million (around $139.7 million FJD). This initial phase is designed to lay the groundwork for sustainable tourism in Vanua Levu.
An estimated $13.6 million has been allocated for this phase, with funding coming from various sources: $7.69 million from the Ministry of Tourism, $2.4 million from the Fiji Roads Authority, and $3.4 million from Fiji Airports.
Gavoka mentioned that significant progress is underway from the ministry’s side. They are currently conducting a Strategic Environmental Social Assessment (SESA) that will evaluate potential environmental and social impacts associated with the master plan’s implementation. A firm has been hired to assist with this assessment.
In conjunction with the SESA, the integrated tourism master plan is being developed. This plan will serve as a crucial framework, projecting tourism growth in Vanua Levu and Taveuni over the next 25 years. It will include baseline data and scenario forecasts to determine the required investments and financial resources to meet future demand.
The minister also indicated that a pilot program focusing on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in tourism will kick off by January 2025. This program aims to identify community-based tourism and women-led cultural enterprises, assess their needs, and design tailored support.
Furthermore, Gavoka highlighted the importance of enabling ATR 72 aircraft to land at northern airports, emphasizing the need for improved passenger transport to Vanua Levu. Currently, only Labasa Airport accommodates ATR 72 flights, but there are plans to extend this capacity to Matei Airport. Additionally, a site has been confirmed at Vunilagi, located a short drive from Savusavu, suitable for ATR 72 and potentially smaller jets.
The Na Vualiku Project is making steady progress, and Gavoka noted the optimistic economic growth in Labasa and Savusavu that indicates a promising future for Vanua Levu. He emphasized the need for collaborative support among government ministries, organizations, civil society, the private sector, and communities to ensure the program’s success.
By working together and investing in sustainable tourism, there is great hope for reaching new heights in the tourism industry in Fiji, particularly in the Northern regions.
Summary: The Na Vualiku Project in Fiji aims to develop a comprehensive tourism master plan for Vanua Levu, beginning work in April 2025. With a budget of $61.5 million, it focuses on sustainable tourism, environmental assessments, and enhancing infrastructure, including improved airport capabilities. The project promises to foster economic growth and necessitates collaborative efforts among various stakeholders for optimum success.
Leave a comment