Nabouwalu town development underway after five decades wait
THE preparatory works for the development of Nabouwalu into a new town is in motion
Almost five decades on and the people of Bua are filled with gratitude and hope as the Nabouwalu new town development has finally been set in motion and construction has begun.
The project which has been in the plan since the 1970’s has started to take shape, beginning with the ground-breaking of its Passenger Terminal by the Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, last month.
Bua Provincial Council chairman and former Roko Tui Bua, Sitiveni Lalibuli, said this heralded a new dawn for the 16,000 Fijians in the province who have been waiting for this to eventuate since the 1970’s.
“I started work at the Bua Provincial office in January 1976, and as soon as I entered, I saw the plan for the new town, which is an indication that this project has been much awaited and anticipated for Fijians in the province,” Mr Lalibuli said. “This is the answer to years of cries and struggles of the people, who once dreamt for a better future, and for this, we are truly grateful to the Coalition Government.”
Turaga na Tui Vuya, Ratu Semisi Ramatai, shared similar sentiments saying the people were excited for the change that it would bring as it would mean not having to travel to Labasa to access services.
“The distance between Nabouwalu to Labasa is about 150 kilometres, and we have people living much further than that – today’s ground-breaking is a new beginning, bringing so much hope for the future,” Ratu Semisi said.
While officiating at the ground breaking, Minister Nalumisa said that Nabouwalu will be one of the first towns where town planners will ensure that all urban planning principles are applied.
“This commitment speaks to our dedication to create a model town, where every aspect is carefully designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents and visitors,” Minister Nalumisa said.
“For years, the people of Nabouwalu have yearned for a promise of development, a promise to transform their lives and elevate their community.
“Today is the first step towards realising that dream, a dream born out of patience, hope, and unwavering belief in a brighter future.”