In an effort to bring development to where the people live, the World Bank is committing $400 million over the next decade through the Na Vualiku-Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu.

While speaking at the launch of the program in Savusavu, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says in the past 18 to 20 months, over 10 companies have invested in projects in Vanua Levu.

He says more of government’s commitment to creating an investor-friendly environment by developing transparent and consultative policies is critical and that includes infrastructure as well as other supporting activities that will significantly boost the economy in Vanua Levu.

Rabuka says in the Northern Division, 63 percent of the population falls within the productive age range of 15 to 64 and this demographic represents a tremendous opportunity to harness the abundant natural resources and the people for growth and development.

He says the Government is committed to transforming Vanua Levu into a thriving tourism hub, one that fosters economic growth, creates meaningful employment, and attracts both local and international investment.

The Prime Minister says tourism continues to be a driving force in our economy, and recent data from the Reserve Bank of Fiji shows that visitors’ arrivals remain strong, with nearly 100,000 visitors arriving in July and over 94,000 in August.

Rabuka says while most visitors currently focus on other parts of Fiji, we must work to ensure that more of them explore and experience the beauty and culture of Vanua Levu.

He further says while the Northern Division has the lowest multidimensional poverty rate in the country, at 26 percent, we still have work to do to lift all of our citizens out of poverty and into a better quality of life.

He says as a government, they are are focused on tackling poverty through targeted investments and policies.

Rabuka says they know that the rural areas, where 38 percent of Fiji’s poor population resides, need special attention and by addressing these disparities, the Government can make sure that every Fijian has a fair shot at success, no matter where they live.

He also confirmed that the Na Vualiku Program is firmly rooted in environmental sustainability and aligned with Fiji’s global commitment to combat climate change.

News source: https://www.fijivillage.com/news/World-Banks-400M-boost-set-to-transform-Vanua-Levu—Rabuka-4frx58/

20 September 2024, Today, we proudly celebrated the launch of what has been officially dubbed ‘Na Vualiku Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu’, a transformative initiative set to position Vanua Levu as a hub of sustainable tourism and economic growth.

At last night’s event, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlighted the importance of this program, describing it as a major step toward building a resilient and sustainable future for Fiji. By investing in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, we are ensuring that the people of Vanua Levu will have the resources they need to live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, shared our bold vision to transform Vanua Levu into a model for sustainable tourism, creating economic opportunities while preserving our island’s natural beauty for future generations. He emphasized the collaborative effort behind this program and acknowledged the crucial support from Airports Fiji Limited and the Fiji Roads Authority, whose contributions will be key to enhancing transportation and infrastructure on the island.

We were also honored by the commitment of the World Bank, with Country Director Mr. Stefano Mocci announcing a $400 million investment over the next decade. This will significantly drive development and open up new opportunities for the people of Vanua Levu, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for all.

This morning, we took another major step with the opening of the Na Vualiku Program office in Savusavu Town. This office will be the nerve center of progress, where strategies are turned into action, driving the implementation of this groundbreaking initiative.

A heartfelt thank you to all our partners, including Airports Fiji Limited, Fiji Roads Authority, and the World Bank, for their unwavering support in making this vision a reality.

Join us on this exciting journey as we build a brighter future for Vanua Levu and all of Fiji!

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#VanuaLevu

#SustainableTourism #FijiForward

#SavusavuTransformation

#WorldBankSupport

#AirportsFijiLimited

#FijiRoadsAuthority

#ResilientFuture

#FijiTourism

Speech delivered by the Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka:

Read here: https://www.fiji.gov.fj/Media-Centre/Speeches/English/PM-SITIVENI-RABUKA-AT-THE-NA-VUALIKU-PROGRAM-LAUNC

The people of Vunisavisavi Village are benefiting from a safer crossing, as a result of the replacement of the Kacidavui Crossing on Nakobo Road in Savusavu.

In 2024, the Chinese Government signed an agreement for the China Aid Initiative with the Government of Fiji to upgrade…

The Project is assisting FRA with improvements to the Labasa-Savusavu Cross Island Connecting Road, which is the island’s most traveled road…

The Program is working with the Waisali Community and the National Trust of Fiji on ways to assist the Reserve with improvements to boost the visitor experience.

In July 2024, the Fiji Sun featured the Na Vualiku Project in their weekend edition. The article provides a helpful overview of the project activities and plans. Click on the photo to read the full article.