The Waisasa Settlement in Tacirua has been granted a 10-year development lease by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) with great pleasure. This move will guarantee homeowners just compensation for their land’s use.

Mr. Sikeli Nakonaivalu, a member of the Nawavatu landowners’ unit, has been given the lease. He has teamed up with Optimal Management Consultant to develop the area for residential use.

The CEO of TLTB, Mr. Solomoni Nata, responded to recent media reports by saying that although TLTB is legally able to evict residents of informal settlements, they have an agreement with development lease holders to relocate or realign them as part of their responsibility.

He also acknowledged the need for a comprehensive approach involving various stakeholders, such as the Ministry of Housing and the Government.

Ensuring that landowners obtain a just and equitable return from the use of their land and that squatters have secure ownership over native land is one of TLTB’s main goals.

Mr. Nata stated, “This development lease to Mr. Nakonaivalu is a step towards achieving that.”

This great location will be developed into 57 residential lots, with the first chance to buy these lots going to the current inhabitants.

In the event that they cannot afford the lots, TLTB and the landowners will collaborate to find other locations for the relocation.

TLTB has asked the developer to extend the notice period by an additional six months in order to give time for selecting relocation sites, even though the residents have been given a 45-day notice to evacuate the land beginning on July 16th.

Phase 1 of the development plans, which comprises two commercial blocks along Princess Road, can move forward, according to a recent discussion with the developer.

TLTB reiterated that squatters’ situation will eventually reach this point, regardless of whether they are moved or realigned to allow for official construction.

Without a title, their job security may not always be guaranteed.

We would like to remind everyone that, in order to formalize squatter settlements throughout Fiji, TLTB has granted 40 development leases to the Ministry of Local Government since 2010 and, more recently, the Minister of Housing.

Additionally, it has given landowners in Mataqali Nawavatu development leases so they can collaborate with businesses on development projects.

TLTB is still dedicated to supporting development that benefits the community at large as well as landowners, making sure that everyone is treated fairly and with respect.