The Government of Fiji has unveiled an expansion of its Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) Programme, aimed at increasing access to secure, affordable, and resilient housing for rural and maritime communities. This initiative targets families living in villages, rural settlements, urban areas, and maritime islands, ensuring crucial support reaches vulnerable groups.
The RHA Programme is particularly focused on first-time homeowners, those impacted by natural disasters, and families looking to upgrade their homes for better safety and living conditions. A key aspect of the program is its dedication to assisting vulnerable populations, including the elderly, individuals with disabilities, women, and children.
Several housing schemes have been introduced to address varying community needs. The first scheme allows residents from rural and maritime regions to purchase building materials valued at a minimum of $30,000, with the government covering transportation costs to ensure access to vital resources.
The second scheme operates on a cost-sharing model, where applicants contribute one-third of the total project costs. Subsequently, the government finances the remaining two-thirds, which can be allocated for new constructions, extensions, cyclone-resilient retrofitting, or the completion of partially constructed homes.
The third scheme emphasizes community involvement by utilizing locally sourced timber, encouraging villages and communal groups to contribute materials. The government supports these efforts in collaboration with the Ministry of Forestry and Habitat for Humanity Fiji.
The final scheme specifically aims to provide fully funded housing for the most vulnerable populations, including individuals with disabilities, single mothers, senior citizens, and social welfare recipients. This initiative also prioritizes designing homes that are disability-friendly.
This expansion of the RHA Programme reflects the government’s commitment to improving living standards, enhancing disaster resilience, and fostering dignified housing solutions across rural and maritime areas of Fiji. By focusing on these essential initiatives, the government is taking significant steps towards building stronger, more resilient communities equipped to face ongoing challenges.