The search for affordable housing in Nadi where rent charges have skyrocketed in recent years remains a challenge for the Ministry of Housing.
Minister Maciu Nalumisa said residents had raised concerns about the high rates, although he acknowledged the situation was understandable given that when demand is high and supply low, there is always the likelihood of landlords charging very high prices.
He said the Housing Authority of Fiji and the Public Rental Board have land in Nadi and they hope to develop them for affordable housing.
“Currently, there is a piece of land acquired by the Housing Authority in Waqadra, close to 88 acres, but that requires engineering works as well as more upgrading,” Mr Nalumisa said.
“Hopefully, they will be able to come up with a plan to utilise that land because it is a big area but the only issue is that it is a flood prone area.”
Mr Nalumisa said low-cost housing was also an option that could be offered by the board.
“The PRB has close to an acre in the Matavolivoli subdivision. So, hopefully, they will be able to come up with some strata type structures to provide more opportunities for the people of Nadi to access affordable housing.”
Under the 2025-2026 National Budget, $15million has been allocated by the Government to formalise six informal settlements at Tavela, Tore, Field 40, Valequyaya, Sakoca and Vunika for the formalisation of 1500 housing leases.
