The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources in Fiji has made a significant advancement by transitioning to a fully digital operating system, which has transformed the approval process for land-related submissions. This innovative change has drastically decreased turnaround times from nearly a week to just 24 hours, showcasing the ministry’s dedication to modernization and improved accountability.
During a briefing with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Permanent Secretary Paula Cirikiyasawa revealed that this initiative is part of a larger digital transformation aimed at modernizing ministry operations. He noted, “The ministry was fortunate to get more than a million in funding, with the expectation that it would enhance our IT infrastructure. Although COVID disrupted that plan, we are finally realizing our goals now.”
Cirikiyasawa described the technological shift as “revolutionizing” the ministry’s work. The new system, implemented via a platform named Sydney Flow, enables the processing of all internal submissions, staff appointments, and Cabinet papers online. This advancement has empowered him to approve submissions remotely, an ability he demonstrated while attending a UN meeting in China.
The ministry has also completely eliminated the use of blue miniature forms that were integral to its previous paper-based processes. This digitization effort is not only about adopting modern technology but is also focused on addressing the inefficiencies found in the outdated land lease system.
Rocky Gucake, Senior System Analyst Programmer, confirmed that the ministry is replacing its Crown Land Lease System, which had remained unchanged since 2007, with a more advanced framework. Encouragingly, local staff are driving this transformation without the involvement of external consultants, highlighting both the ministry’s internal capabilities and boosting staff morale.
This initiative aligns with a wider movement among Fijian governmental bodies to enhance transparency and operational efficiency across various sectors. Similar advancements include the forthcoming launch of the Building Permits Approval Subsystem set for October, aimed at streamlining construction approvals that have historically encountered bureaucratic delays.
These developments underline the Fijian government’s commitment to fostering a more modern, transparent, and efficient administrative framework, which in turn encourages economic growth and creates a conducive environment for investment. By embracing innovative solutions, the ministry is not only expected to enhance its internal operations but also improve community access to land resources and elevate overall governance.
As Fiji continues to embrace these digital transformations, it is poised to cultivate a more robust economy and enhance the quality of services provided to its citizens. The ongoing projects signal a hopeful future where efficiency, transparency, and accountability can flourish, fostering sustainable development and prosperity throughout the nation.