The development of a new township in Nabouwalu is being advanced as a strategic investment aimed at driving economic growth and easing pressure on Fiji’s existing urban centres.

Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa told Parliament the Nabouwalu New Township Development is part of the Coalition Government’s broader push for decentralisation and balanced national development.

He said the project will transform approximately 5.4 hectares of land into a structured township designed to support business activity, improve service delivery, and create opportunities in Bua Province and the wider Northern Division.

The planned township will include 23 commercial lots, six industrial lots, and four civic lots, with provisions for key public infrastructure such as a market, bus stand, and a future government office. Supporting infrastructure, including road access and service lanes, will also be developed.

Nalumisa said the project is being rolled out in phases, with the first phase already underway. This phase focuses on commercial lot development along the Nabouwalu Highway and is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Subsequent phases will deliver civic infrastructure and expand commercial and industrial capacity, with the full project targeted for completion between the 2028 and 2029 financial years.

Government has so far spent about $3.25 million on the project, covering land acquisition, surveys, engineering design, and initial civil works. The total cost is estimated at $8.72 million.

Nalumisa highlighted that supporting infrastructure is already in place, including the Nabouwalu Passenger Services Terminal, which is expected to complement the township by improving connectivity and facilitating economic activity.

A key feature of the development is a newly approved framework that allows for landowner participation. Under this model, the Government will lead core infrastructure development, while landowners, through Nalumatua Holdings Limited, will be able to engage in commercial investments via structured lease arrangements.

The Minister said this approach aims to ensure that iTaukei landowners benefit directly from development on their land, while Government maintains regulatory oversight and planning control.

The Nabouwalu project is expected to address long-standing service gaps in Bua and position the area as a new economic hub in the Northern Division, supporting private sector investment and future population growth.