For so long, in Fiji, economic success is not an area one would associate with the indigenous community. Quite to the contrary. Economic success is often equated with non-indigenous or global with multinational corporations. It is therefore, worth noting the growth and ambitions of indigenous-owned business Nadonumai Holdings Ltd (NHL) — the commercial company owned by the people of mataqali Suvavou of Suvavou Village, outside Suva. NHL is acknowledged to be a beacon of hope proving that indigenous businesses can thrive and excel on the level playing field with other similar businesses locally. Last Saturday, members of the mataqali Suvavou were joined by Government ministers and officials, diplomats, and investors and bankers at their event, themed ‘Marking Milestones and Embracing Growth’, to celebrate their company’s achievements and reflect on their collective journey marked by perseverance, innovation and unwavering dedication to excellence.
The success story of Nadonumai Holdings Ltd has been said to be an inspiration to everyone. From humble beginnings to becoming the proud owner of the 10-storey Suvavou House that has been generating income for a quarter of a century, NHL has demonstrated the power of indigenous entrepreneurship, and potential partner in any business investments.
History
Nadonumai Holdings Ltd was established in 1993 with the construction of its first property — Suvavou House located in the capital city’s central business district. That establishment was possible after the then Sitiveni Rabuka-led government approved the return of Cruickshank Park to the people of Suvavou, located only metres from the historic site of the original Nadonumai Village. He officially opened the Suvavou House in 1997 – the building designed by Ken Lowe from Australia and built by Fletcher Construction in Fiji. On February 23 last year, NHL celebrated its 25th Silver Jubilee, reflecting its contribution as a proud member of the Fiji business community. With that success, NHL has been able to implement plans for its ongoing development that now include a multi-million-dollar expansion of its investment portfolio with the acquisition of three high-end properties to the tune of $9million, new property projects, and land reclamation for future developments.
New projects
Multi-storey building
In May last year, the mataqali Suvavou received the title of the land behind Suvavou House after more than 20 years of knocking on government’s door to have this piece of land returned to its rightful ownership. That piece of crown land will be the site of NHL’s latest and ambitious endeavour yet: a multi-million dollar multifunctioning tower building that will, among other things, feature three free carparks, a shopping mall, a convention centre and Quest Apartments. NHL chief executive officer Jiu Daunivalu named BSP as a potential financier of this investment. “We have done preliminary works and that commenced two months ago. We have a strict timeline on when we are going to have this complex. We’re targeting next year or if it is late, early 2026 you will see this complex,” Ms Daunivalu said.
Vugalei Container Park
With anticipation of a new port adjacent to the Suva harbour towards the Lami foreshore, NHL is already eyeing a container park to compliment the development and it will be called Vugalei Container Park. Ms Daunivalu said they will reclaim the land past the old Lami rubbish dump and the Punjas reclaimed land past the bridge at Vugalei. “We have obtained the approval in principle but we are currently working on papers to submit in terms of compliance to the government standards, policies and procedures.”
Joint venture
NHL also announced a joint venture with Vuda Hills led by Michael Yee. Details of this partnership will be announced in the future
Agriculture
NHL is also focused on diversification to ease reliance on its real estate property business. “We have to look into how we can create employment and career with our youths in the village, women and farmers. “So we are going to diversify into agriculture, farming as a career, as a profession, to support livelihoods of farmers and support food security and alleviate poverty. “These are some of the cross-cutting measures that Nadonumai Holdings Ltd also considers when we are doing our planning in moving forward – not only to make profit but also looking at the social aspect of running business – we diversify into agriculture.” NHL board chairman and Tui Suva Sanaila Mudunavosa said it was essential to recognise the pivotal role that supportive government policies play in fostering an environment conducive to growth and development. He acknowledged the Government for its commitment to supporting indigenous people through progressive policies. “These policies not only empower indigenous communities but also create opportunities for economic growth and prosperity. “By fostering an environment of inclusivity and diversity, the Government has enabled indigenous companies like Nadonumai Holdings Ltd and our business partners to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economy,” Mr Mudunavosa said. Ms Daunivalu said one cannot work alone in running a business and cited the 4Ps — public, private, producer partnership as the way forward for Fiji. “We need Government as an enabler to help us move forward because without government, it is impossible.” On behalf of Government, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo acknowledged the NHL board for its valuable contribution to Fiji’s economy and society. “Your success is our success and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way as you continue to write new chapters of success and prosperity,” Mr Vosarogo said. “Tonight’s (Saturday) celebration of the Nadonumai Holdings Ltd’s achievements underscores not only the success of indigenous entrepreneurship but also the importance of government policies that support and encourage indigenous participation in business. “As we focus on the achievements of today, let us also look to the future with optimism and confidence. “There will undoubtedly be more challenges to overcome and milestones to achieve, but with the same spirit of resilience and collaboration that has brought the company this far, I have no doubt that the Nadonumai Holdings on its own, or with a partner, will continue to thrive and succeed,” Mr Vosarogo said.
