Homeownership for 47 families

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Minister for Housing and Local Government Maciu Nalumisa (left) hands provisional homeownership offer letters to Tavakubu and PRB tenants at Lautoka’s Girmit Centre. Picture: REINAL CHAND

Forty-seven tenants of the Public Rental Board at Tavakubu in Lautoka were given provisional offer letters to become homeowners for the first time.

Housing Minister Maciu Nalumisa said the event held on Friday was another vital step towards realising the Government’s unwavering commitment to expanding home ownership.

He said this included alleviating informal settlements across the nation and ensuring tenants have access to safe and adequate housing.

“By formalising informal settlements, we are creating vibrant communities where children can grow up safely, where families can access essential services, and where every citizen feels a sense of ownership and pride,” Mr Nalumisa said.

“Today, Tavakubu is no longer defined as an informal settlement.

“Its regularisation has made it possible for the 47 families to become first homeowners, who have transitioned from a livelihood where services and security of tenure were not guaranteed.”

Mr Nalumisa also commended five families from the PRB estate who also received offer letters.

“They will also transition from renting, to owning their homes,” he said.