A new residential subdivision development is underway at Yako Village in Nadroga, driven by the Jubaniwai landowning unit. The project comprises 22 residential lots, each valued at $105,000. Initially starting in 2018, the development gained significant momentum last year, thanks to financial assistance of $60,000 from the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (TLTB).
Serupepeli Neikeci, speaking on behalf of the group, explained that the funds were crucial for hiring contractors to manage the subdivision of the nine-acre land into 22 plots. He highlighted an advantage of working with the TLTB: the project did not incur the typical premium costs, thanks to their assistance program. A new land valuation showed an increased worth, affirming the decision to pursue the subdivision rather than an earlier offer of $90,000 from an interested investor.
Neikeci sees this venture as an opportunity for the landowning unit to significantly benefit from the enhanced valuation of the land, and encourages other landowners to explore similar development opportunities. This call to action aligns with broader initiatives across Fiji, where embracing sustainable business opportunities on native land is seen as a pathway to economic empowerment for landowners.
This project is part of a broader movement across Fiji where the TLTB and other stakeholders are facilitating land developments led by landowners. Similar success stories, such as the Varavu subdivision in Ba, show that landowner-led initiatives not only create economic opportunities through leasing but also align with a cultural shift towards leveraging land for sustainable growth and reducing poverty among indigenous communities. This development not only promises a boost in value for the landowners but also sets a hopeful precedent, showcasing the potential for sustainable, landowner-driven development to enhance local economies and community prosperity in Fiji.
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