Transforming Vanua Levu into a leading and thriving tourism hub is the objective of the Coalition Government’s “Fiji’s Tourism Development Programme”.

Known as the “Na Vualiku Programme”, this $400 million Fiji Government and World Bank collaboration will be implemented in three phases over the next 10 years.

Under these phases, the programme will see development on infrastructure, community engagement and a sustainable tourism masterplan. Specifically, the programme will see better and modern airports and roads, a thriving micro, small and medium enterprises community and more jobs and benefits for the people of Vanua Levu.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka in launching the programme in Savusavu in late September said that there is a great opportunity for the Northern Division and while most visitors currently focus on other parts of Fiji, more work must be done to ensure that more of them explore and experience the beauty and culture of Vanua Levu.

“Enhancing tourism in the North will provide jobs, spur local businesses, and inject much-needed investment into this region,” PM Rabuka said.

“This development initiative aims to create the infrastructure and services needed to attract more visitors to the Northern Division, sharing the benefits of our thriving tourism industry.”

“The ripple effects of this programme will be felt across the island and throughout the nation, as the benefits of this investment empower local communities and strengthen our economy,” the Head of Government added.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Viliame Gavoka added that this World Bank-funded programme will “unlock the untapped potential of Vanua Levu” which currently accounts for 4 per cent of total visitors to Fiji as opposed to 80 per cent for the western division in Viti Levu.

“What’s important to realise is that the US$200 million (FJ$454.4 million), while earmarked for a tourism programme, will greatly benefit other sectors,” he said.

“That’s the power of tourism and the crux of this programme is to mobilise investments in resilient infrastructure and essential services, to create a more enabling business environment, and enhance institutional coordination,” DPM Gavoka added.

A dedicated office has also been opened in Vanua Levu for better coordination efforts, engagement with local communities, and ensuring that projects are effectively executed.