The Ministry of Local Government and Housing will relocate close to 400 families this financial year as part of its program for settlements that cannot be formalised, says Minister Maciu Nalumisa.
He said the families affected included those from Vatuwaqa, Veidogo, the Nabua Muslim League area and around 63 households in Kilikali.
“We have identified green land, where the Ministry will be working with the Lands Department to acquire this land from TLTB.”
Mr Nalumisa said $2.2million had been allocated in the current budget to support land acquisition and preparation of new sites. He said discussions were already underway with private landlords.
“What we’re going to do now, once we acquire, I just met a few landlords last week, and they’re willing to give us at least one parcel.
“Once we go through the acquisition stage, then we should be able to develop that area, by providing at least some roading.
“Some have already got water, or some, we’re going to at least provide some infrastructure, water, if possible electricity.”
He said the ministry was also directing the Housing Authority (HA) to review its policies so that those who qualified for financing could access lots.
“It’s something I’ve told the Housing Authority to review the policy, so they can absorb those that can qualify… they can buy land from the Housing Authority.”
The ministry’s long-term plan is to develop or construct 1000 homes or serviced land parcels each year for the next five to six years.
“Our target now is at least to develop and also construct 1000 homes… in the next five to six years, that’s part of our strategic plan.”
Mr Nalumisa estimated the national housing demand at 6000 to 7000.
