The Government says the Keiyasi and Seaqaqa township developments are progressing despite delays, with both projects expected to transform rural centres into modern growth hubs.
Responding to a question on the status of the new town development program in parliament, Housing and Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa said the Keiyasi project in Nadroga covered 9.3 hectares of iTaukei land and estimated to cost $10.8million.
The new town plan includes 27 commercial lots, a civic centre, a market, a bus and carrier stand, two industrial sites, a service station and a lot for the National Fire Authority.
“Civil works began in February 2024 and are expected to finish by the end of 2026,” Mr Nalumisa said.
“$2.2million has been spent to date, and a further $1.6million is budgeted for this financial year.”
In Seaqaqa, Macuata, the town boundary has already been gazetted, and work has begun on a new market and bus stand to anchor the township.
“The work on the market and bus stand site is well underway with site excavation, clearing, levelling and building profiling already completed, as well as foundation works currently in progress.”
The ministry has been allocated $1.7m this year to continue the work.
“These projects are not just about empowering landowners and communities but also creating jobs, businesses and services right where people live,” Mr Nalumisa said.
The Seaqaqa town project is expected to be completed by April next year.
