New town a beacon of growth for Navosa
IN a historic moment that will forever change the landscape of Navosa, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, led the ground-breaking ceremony for the Keiyasi Town development. The event not only marked the beginning of an important project but also demonstrated the collaborative spirit of Keiyasi chiefs, the people of Tikina o Namataku, and the landowning unit of Namoilevu. Keiyasi, the latest addition to Fiji’s urban landscape, is poised to usher in a tidal wave of opportunities and services to this once-remote part of the province. The development of the town not only signifies progress but also promises to enhance the quality of life for the residents and is expected to become a hub of economic activity, providing the community with newfound prospects, improved infrastructure and a range of essential services.
During the event, PM Rabuka expressed his gratitude to the community for their generosity in leasing over nine hectares of land for the town’s development and highlighted that the benevolent act would lay the foundation for a prosperous future for the people of Navosa.
For years, residents faced the challenge of long journeys to Sigatoka to access government services and sell their farm produce.
“With the development of Keiyasi Town, these struggles will soon be a thing of the past. The development aligns with the Ministry of Local Government’s urban planning and management program, ensuring proper planning and development precede the establishment of growth centres.”
Keiyasi Town was part of the Coalition Government’s vision for four designated urban growth centres in Fiji.
PM Rabuka emphasised the importance of these centres in diversifying trade and business networks, contributing to overall economic growth and an increase in the country’s Gross Domestic Product.
“Keiyasi Town has the potential to create employment opportunities, improve living standards, and stimulate economic activity and as a predominantly agricultural community, the proximity of the new town will significantly reduce transportation costs for farmers, bringing the market closer to their doorstep,” the Head of Government said. “This ground-breaking ceremony marks the beginning of Phase 1 of the project, which will entail civil works before advancing to the construction of civic buildings, public amenities and commercial and industrial sites.”
“With an estimated cost of $11 million, fully funded by the People’s Coalition Government, local companies with indigenous expertise, such as Construction Equipment Hire Limited and West-Eng Consulting Ltd, are spearheading the development,” added the Prime Minister.
PM Rabuka expressed hope that Keiyasi Town would live up to its name, becoming a true growth centre that fosters unity and love for generations to come.
The town’s development serves as a beacon of progress, promising a brighter and more connected future for the chiefs and people of Navosa.
Welcoming the development was Laite Ravouvou, a 60-year-old resident of Keiyasi Village, who expressed her delight while highlighting the difficulties they had endured over the years.
“I am originally from Wauosi village and married here in Keiyasi and we face the same hardship over the years,” she said. “Sigatoka serves as our nearest town and acts as the primary economic hub for the highlands of Navosa. It functions as the central marketplace for our agricultural products, and given the occasional poor condition of the road, ensuring the safe transportation of our produce poses a significant challenge for us.”
Ms Ravouvou further said the development of Keiyasi will also empower them to do more as market opportunities will be right at their doorstep.
She also mentioned that the progress of Keiyasi will empower them to expand their endeavours, as market opportunities will be conveniently accessible at their doorstep. Keiyasi Village Headman, Viliame Naliva, enthusiastically emphasised that the town’s development catalyses numerous positive outcomes.
He highlighted that it not only represents progress but also opens up a plethora of opportunities for the young generation in Navosa.
Mr Naliva believes that this transformative growth will not only enhance the overall well-being of the community but also empower its youth, fostering a brighter and more promising future for the entire region.