A recent social survey by the Housing Ministry has found that a significant number of individuals residing in squatter or informal settlements are actually financially capable of affording proper housing. Manasa Lesuma, the permanent secretary of the Housing Ministry, acknowledged that while some residents genuinely struggle with financial limitations, many others could secure adequate housing but choose to remain in their current living conditions.
Lesuma noted that relocating these individuals is challenging, as the government would be acting as a third party, and ultimately, the responsibility lies with the landowners. The government is initiating a new effort to assist those living in informal settlements, with a pilot project focusing on relocating residents of the Veidogo settlement in Vatuwaqa.
Additionally, there is a collaborative relocation project between the Housing Ministry and Habitat for Humanity. The ministry employs various strategies for relocation, including conducting social surveys to assess family incomes and identify those who genuinely need relocation versus those who may be taking advantage of the system.
Lesuma emphasized that landlords should be aware of the findings from these surveys, as this information could affect eviction proceedings. Evictions will only be carried out in settlements for which the ministry has received development approvals. This includes areas that have been developed and improved, providing tenants with properly subdivided lots, adequate roads adhering to Fiji Roads Authority standards, and essential utility services.
Lesuma highlighted the ongoing migration from rural to urban areas as a contributing factor to the congestion in the Suva-Nausori corridor. Currently, there are nearly 300 informal settlements across Fiji, posing a challenge for authorities to consider ways to upgrade these areas effectively.