Navua has marked a historic milestone after five decades, as it has officially been declared a town today.
While officiating at the declaration ceremony, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the declaration recognizes Navua’s long history and its contribution to Fiji.
He says Navua has played an important role in agriculture, trade, education, sports and local business.
The Prime Minister says the achievement is the result of generations of hard work, resilience and determination by the people of Navua.
Rabuka says the new status is expected to strengthen local governance and improve the delivery of municipal services, including waste management, drainage, sanitation, roads, footpaths, street lighting, traffic management and public spaces.
He also stressed the importance of proper town planning as Navua continues to grow.
He says future development will need to provide space for housing, businesses, industries, public facilities and recreation, while preventing unplanned development from putting pressure on essential services.
Rabuka says the town status comes with greater responsibility for the council, businesses and residents. Therefore, the municipality must be guided by good governance, financial responsibility, effective planning, transparency and accountability.
The Prime Minister says Navua must be prepared for flooding, cyclones, heavy rainfall and other natural hazards through better drainage, resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, emergency preparedness and proper land-use planning.
He adds the new municipality is expected to focus on improving services, supporting local businesses and farmers, creating opportunities for young people, and building a safer, more inclusive and resilient community.
