Residents facing relocation from the Nabua Muslim League Settlement say they are prepared to move if it means a safer and better future for their families, despite the uncertainty surrounding the timing of the relocation.
Chairman of Nabua Muslim League Zone 1, Asaeli Joji Tamanitoakula, told fijivillage News that while no residents have moved out yet, the community has been informed by government that several relocation options are being explored, including housing developments, Public Rental Board accommodation, government reserve land and, in some cases, a return to villagers' home communities.
Tamanitoakula says residents are still awaiting confirmation from Government on when the relocation process will begin, and where families will ultimately be resettled.
Having lived in the settlement for almost 40 years, Tamanitoakula believes relocation presents an opportunity for many families to improve their living conditions and create a safer environment for future generations.
Insert: Tamanitoakula - Relocation is good June 04
He says concerns about crime, drug activity and the lack of proper infrastructure within the settlement have prompted some residents to support the move.
According to Tamanitoakula, many parents are worried about the influence of drugs and criminal activity on young people and believe a new environment could provide children with better opportunities and a more secure future.
While acknowledging the emotional challenge of leaving a community that many families have called home for decades, he says residents also understand the importance of respecting land ownership rights and complying with legal processes.
The Nabua Muslim League Settlement has become one of Fiji's most significant housing and relocation issues after the Fiji Muslim League, which owns the land, issued eviction notices in November 2024 and announced plans to reclaim the property for future development.
The organisation stated that it required vacant possession of the land to proceed with development and financing plans, with Government ministers later confirming that the League, as the legal landowner, has the right to develop its property.
More than 400 households are estimated to live in the settlement, making it one of the largest informal settlements in the country.
Many residents have lived there since the 1980s, with some families spending more than three decades in the area.
Following public concern over the evictions, the Government intervened and began working with affected families to identify relocation options.
A socio-economic survey was carried out to assess residents' needs, while the Government also requested additional time from the Fiji Muslim League to allow for relocation planning.
The Housing Ministry has since been exploring alternative sites, including land near Koronivia and housing options through the Housing Authority, as part of efforts to relocate affected families.
We have sent questions to the Ministry of Housing Maciu Nalumisa on when the families will be relocating and to which places.
He is yet to respond.
