Blueprint for growth
Accelerating sustainable development of the Lami-Veisari region
NESTLED along the picturesque shores of Lami Town, amidst the breathtaking Bay of Islands and the bustling West Suva Harbour, lies a community facing the dual challenges of urbanisation and coastal degradation. The Lami Town-Veisari Corridor, once a tranquil haven, now grapples with rapid urban sprawl, threatening its natural beauty and marine ecosystems.
The Bilo Peninsular is home of the people of Yavusa Navakavu, Tikina of Suva, Province of Rewa has a population of close to 1900 members, divided into seven mataqali and living in five villages, namely Muaivuso, Nabaka, Namakala, Waiqanake and Ucuinamono. Collectively, they own 14,000 acres of iTaukei land, 4,645 acres of qoliqoli and 480 acres of mangroves forests. They are the largest landowners in the Rewa Province.
Urbanisation challenges
The rapid growth of urbanisation along the Lami Town-Veisari Corridor has led to increased pressure on land and resources, resulting in environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity. As concrete structures replace mangrove forests and coastal habitats, the delicate balance of the ecosystem is disrupted, leaving communities vulnerable to climate change impacts such as rising sea levels and extreme weather events.
Navakavu Blue Economic Zone
In response to these challenges, the people of Yavusa Navakavu community launched a 5-year strategic planning exercise in 2018 and embarked on a visionary journey towards sustainable development. The Navakavu Blue Economic Zone (NBEZ) masterplan was created and approved by people, it aligned with the 17 Sustainable Development goals (SDGs), emphasizes the principles of the blue economy and climate change resilience. This sustainable development plan was strengthened by a partnership with the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development, Itaukei Affairs Ministry. The NBEZ seeks to rejuvenate the Lami to Veisari coastal protection measures while fostering economic growth and community well-being.
A focus on fun, adventure and recreation activities
The Navakavu Development Trust proposes a range of naturebased recreational and adventure activities within the Navakavu Blue Economic Zone (NBEZ) to showcase the region’s diverse natural beauty. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore mangrove walkways, embark on ecotourism boat tours through the Bay of Islands, and indulge in snorkeling and diving adventures to discover the vibrant marine life beneath the crystal-clear waters. Additionally, adventurers can take on the challenge of hiking to Mount Korobaba, where stunning vistas await, or explore heritage World War II gun sites that offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history.
Business development opportunities
In parallel, the Trust envisions a robust economic ecosystem within the NBEZ, featuring a vibrant Navakavu City that serves as a hub for commerce and culture. The development will include eco-tourism accommodations nestled amidst the natural surroundings, commercial centers catering to local businesses and tourists, a state-of-the-art business process outsourcing (BPO) campus, and marine educational tourism facilities aimed at fostering environmental awareness and conservation efforts.
Policy paper submission
Collaborating closely with government agencies, the Yavusa Navakavu community has submitted a comprehensive policy paper for Cabinet approval, outlining the vision for the NBEZ and sustainable development of the Lami-Veisari corridor. With a focus on energising resilience, the strategic plan for 2024 to 2028 was endorsed by landowners during a landmark consultation event held on February 15, 2024 held at the seaferers hall in Walu Bay, Suva. The NBEZ cabinet paper received overwhelming support from the members of the yavusa and now awaits finalising and submission to Cabinet in the near future. Obtaining Cabinet approval paves the way for sustainable development partnership for infrastructure development to support economic activities in the Lami-Veisari corridor.
Incorporation into Fiji national development plans
The Fiji Government National Development Plan consultation team visited Muaivuso Village to seek the views of the villagers as to what they would contribute to Fiji’s development plans. Collectively, in view of the need to align their efforts with national planning priorities, the people of Yavusa Navakavu have consented to incorporate the Lami-Veisari NBEZ masterplan into the Fiji Government’s 3-year, 5-year, and 20-year development plans. This collaborative approach ensures long-term sustainability and resilience, transcending boundaries to protect the environment and promote inclusive growth in the Veisari growth corridor.
Gratitude and acknowledgment
As the journey towards sustainable development continues, the people of Yavusa Navakavu extend their heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders involved, including the landowners, communities, Fiji Government, Itaukei Trust Board, Itaukei Affairs, Blue Horizon Property Group, United Nations, and Navakavu Development Trust. Together, they stand united in their commitment to safeguarding the natural heritage of Fiji and ensuring a prosperous future for generations to come.
In the words of Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau: “It is very important for landowners to understand the resources they have and how they will utilise it in terms of sustainable development, keeping in mind the environment and also climate change. It would be a balance between development for economic purposes and development in terms of preserving what we have for future generations.” This is further supported by chairman Seveci in stating the significance of landowners comprehending their resources and their responsible utilisation for sustainable development. He emphasises the need for a delicate equilibrium between economic development and environmental preservation, considering both present needs and the wellbeing of future generations amidst the challenges posed by climate change.
Additionally, chairman Seveci underscores that fostering this balance will not only enhance the economy but will also bring substantial benefits to the community.