The Fijian Government is spearheading a new era of environmentally conscious urban planning with the development of its National Blue Town Framework (NBTF), designed to guide the creation of climate-resilient and sustainable towns.

Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, announced the initiative, which is being developed in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) through its Investing in Coral Reefs and the Blue Economy (ICRBE) Project. A multi-ministry taskforce is overseeing the framework’s implementation.

The NBTF aims to establish comprehensive standards for environmental conservation and marine protection in urban development, with a particular focus on townships in coastal and environmentally sensitive areas.

“The framework will serve as a guide for all future town developments, including Nabouwalu, Keiyasi, Seaqaqa, and emerging growth centres such as Korovou, Waimacia, Vunidawa, Dreketi, Navua, and Taveuni,” said Minister Nalumisa.

Rather than focusing solely on physical infrastructure, the framework emphasizes sustainable growth, economic opportunity, and climate resilience.

The program began in 2018 with pilot initiatives in Nabouwalu, Keiyasi, and Seaqaqa-towns chosen for their geographic significance, active local economies, and potential to drive wider regional development.

Officials believe the NBTF will provide a model for balancing development and environmental stewardship as Fiji continues to experience urban expansion and climate-related challenges.