The Ministry of Housing in Fiji announces a groundbreaking extension of its first home ownership initiative, targeting families living in informal settlements and those who have faced eviction from these areas. Minister Maciu Nalumisa emphasized the necessity of this move during a recent parliamentary session, citing a long-standing need for support among these vulnerable families since the initiative was launched in 2014.
Minister Nalumisa highlighted that many low-income households have been unable to access the formal housing market due to affordability constraints. To address this, the Ministry plans to introduce a First Home Grant Assistance Program designed to provide targeted financial support to families evicted from informal settlements across the nation. This program will be piloted in Suva, where some of the densest informal settlements exist.
The focus of this pilot initiative will be on families with a combined household income of up to $30,000, particularly those residing in specific settlements like Vunidawa, Nabua Muslim League, and Kilikali. Over 600 households across these areas have been identified as candidates for assistance, marking a significant step towards improving living conditions for some of the city’s most vulnerable residents.
In response to questions regarding the eligibility criteria, particularly concerning age, Minister Nalumisa clarified that there is no age limit for applicants. As long as individuals can demonstrate ownership of registered land, they will be eligible to participate in the program.
This initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance housing accessibility and affordability, which have been underscored by previous allocations for the First Home Ownership Initiative. Notably, the government recently allocated $4 million to support numerous applications under this initiative and has also introduced a zero-deposit home loan product to alleviate barriers to home ownership.
The proactive approach by the Ministry, including plans to formalize informal settlements and provide resettlement funding, fosters optimism for a more secure and stable housing environment in Fiji. By addressing the pressing needs of families facing evictions and granting them access to formal housing options, the government manifests its commitment to enhancing quality of life for all citizens, ultimately fostering a society where everyone has the opportunity to own a home.