FIVE MORE APPROVALS UNDER THE ITAUKEI LAND DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVE

These developments will be funded through the Government Grant Assistance for iTaukei Land Development, a Government initiative launched in 2015 to enable iTaukei landowners to maximise the value of their land holdings. Specifically, the grants are designed to meet the cost of connecting and constructing utilities such as electricity, water, roads and other critical infrastructure on iTaukei land.

After a thorough process of verification, the following developers have been approved for assistance under the scheme:

· Iliesa Cebaivalu Namuaira in Vuda;

· Manasa Naiceru Nasara in Tavua;

· the Mataqali Matarisiga Trust in Lautoka;

· Josefa Uluivuda and Makelesi Dibau Davelevu in Lautoka; and

· the Haravai Holding Trust in Nadroga.

Since the launch of the initiative in 2015, five other developments in Vuda, Wairabetia, Saweni, Yadua and Tailevu have already received development funding, and are nearing completion across the country.

At a meeting with the landowners whose applications had received approval, Attorney-General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum commended those whose proposals will come to fruition.

“With this most recent round of approvals and the funding, Government is again finding ways to in a practical and tangible manner financially empower iTaukei landowners. This is yet another investment in our people, and these new developments will further grow the Fijian economy,” said Sayed-Khayium. “We’ve already permanently and irreversibly protected the inalienable rights of iTaukei land ownership through the 2013 Fijian Constitution, and through this programme, we’re doing one better – giving iTaukei landowners the opportunity to develop their own land, make healthy profits, become cash empowered, have business opportunities and invest back into the Fijian economy.”

-ENDS-