After more than three decades of requests and anticipation, the people of Manoca Informal Settlement are celebrating a major milestone — the long-awaited upgrade of their community road.
This development marks a new chapter for the settlement, bringing improved access, connectivity, and quality of life for families in the area.
The official commissioning was attended by the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Hon. Agni Deo Singh, and the Assistant Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Hon. Shalen Kumar, alongside community representatives, the advisory councillor, and residents.
Minister Singh shared that this upgrade followed his visit to the community two months ago, where residents raised concerns about poor road conditions that had persisted for over 30 years. Through collaboration with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), the Government responded swiftly to deliver the long-requested project.
“This is how your Government works — by listening, working together with communities, and connecting them with the relevant authorities to bring real results,” said Minister Singh.
Assistant Minister Kumar congratulated the residents for their unity and patience, describing the upgraded road as “a symbol of perseverance, unity, and the Government’s commitment to inclusive development.”
He also encouraged the community to continue working together to maintain the new road and support future initiatives like streetlights and water meters.
The Manoca community expressed heartfelt thanks to the Government and the FRA for hearing their long-standing call for help and turning it into action.
Both Ministers reaffirmed that this project reflects what can be achieved when communities and Government work hand in hand — delivering tangible results that improve lives.