TLTB identifies 42 informal settlements for development

The iTaukei Land Trust Board has identified 42 informal settlements for development of which 5 percent (2 sites - Ledrusasa Subdivision in Nadi and Waidamudamu in the Central division) have been completed with individual leases issued to the sitting tenants, and 19 percent (7 sites) have expired but not renewed as requested by the respective landowning units. They say the remaining are currently work in progress.

274 families who are living in Waidamudamu Settlement have a peace of mind as they now have been granted formal leases to reside on the land and have an asset that is secured which allows them to provide equity in accessing financial assistance.

TLTB says the completion of the settlement has provided secured residential tenure to the residents and consecutively boosted the income stream for the landowners of Navuso Village.

They say the project included the connection of road networks within the subdivision, connection of water and electricity, engineering works, drainage, and surveying of each individual lots.

TLTB says for the landowners, this project has ensured that they have a legitimate income derived from lease rentals which can then be set aside to assist in the setting up of commercial projects that will sustain them financially in the long run.

TLTB says they are working in collaboration with the government through the Ministry of Housing and Community Development as well as the Director of Lands to upgrade and formalise these settlements. They say this is to ensure and promote standardized housing, improved utilities access for electricity, water and sewerage, and improve environmental, health and safety impacts in and around the settlements.

They also say for the 7 sites that have not been renewed, this indicates that for any informal settlement within iTaukei land, there is always the risk of landowners reclaiming their lands for proper development or for their own use, resulting in informal tenants losing their homes and businesses.

TLTB says they are committed to protecting landowners’ interests and are actively addressing the issue of informal settlements across urban areas in Fiji.

They say the squatters must always bear in mind that occupation without a lease on native land or reserve land will remain perpetually insecure and uncertain.

iTLTB says they must expect that there will come a time in the future when they need to formalize their occupation or asked or forced to move for formal development, either for residential or other purposes.

The Board says they will continue to work with stakeholders in consultation with landowning units to ensure that informal settlements are developed and have beneficial returns to the landowners.