WORK on preparing an integrated tourism master plan for the North will begin in April 2025 under the Fiji Tourism Development program in Vanua Levu or ‘Na Vualiku Project’ that will provide long-term forecast for tourism growth in the North.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka said they were in phase one of the Na Vualiku Project valued at $US61.5million (approx. $F139.7m), and this phase would set the foundations for sustainable tourism in Vanua Levu.
The project has been allocated an estimated $13.6m, of which the Ministry of Tourism provided $7.69m, Fiji Roads Authority — $2.4m, and Fiji Airports — $3.4m.
He said from the ministry’s side, considerable work had begun.
“We are first undertaking a Strategic Environmental Social Assessment (SESA) to look at all the environmental and social risks and impacts that could be expected with the implementation of the integrated tourism master plan. A firm has been engaged,” Mr Gavoka told parliament.
“In parallel with SESA, we are now in the process of preparing an integrated tourism master plan, which will be an important framework that will give us a 25-year forecast for tourism growth to Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
“It will also include baseline, and a scenario forecast that can tell us the investments and finances needed to cater for future demand.”
Mr Gavoka said by January 2025, they would begin working on MSME pilot program.
“Here we will map out tourism MSMEs, community-based tourism and women cultural enterprises, understand their specific needs, then design a pilot program.”
He also stressed the need to start landing ATR 72 aircraft at northern airports to make a difference in carrying passengers to Vanua Levu.
“Right now, only Labasa can take the ATR 72, and the plan is to extend Matei to also cater for ATR 72.”
He said a site had also been confirmed at Vunilagi, about 40 minutes drive from Savusavu, which can take ATR 72 and possibly smaller jets.
“The Na Vualiku Project is progressing very well and I might just add, I was there (last) Thursday and Friday in Labasa and Savusavu, the boom in those two economies is very evident and I think there are great years ahead for Vanua Levu.
“For this program to work, we need the buy-in, not just from other government ministries but other government organisations, civil society, private sector, development partners and communities.”
