100 days to move: Nabua Public Rental Board families face urgent eviction

Families living in the Public Rental Board (PRB) flats at Nabua Housing Estate, Suva, have been given 100 days to leave after the Government declared the buildings unsafe.

The seven blocks, built more than 50 years ago, are set for demolition, Minister for Housing Maciu Nalumisa confirmed.

Block 5 is already vacant, but residents in the remaining six blocks must now prepare to move. The short notice has left many residents anxious about their future.

Latileta Raratabu, who has lived in the flats for nearly 20 years, said: “We don’t know where we will live in the next 100 days. Previously, we were given six months; now it’s just three. It feels unfair.”

For 62-year-old Litia Joyce, who has lived in Nabua for over 40 years, leaving is almost unthinkable.

“We’re from Lau and don’t have land here on Viti Levu. This is where I started my life. Where else are we expected to go?” she asked.

Ms Joyce works nights selling food parcels outside nightclubs to support her family.

Mr Nalumisa said the Government had no choice.

“We are risking lives. The buildings are unsafe, and families cannot remain in danger,” he said.

He assured that tenants would be supported during relocation.

“Assistance will be provided through vacant flats, land purchase by the housing authority, or recently built model homes. It is our responsibility to ensure families are supported before they move,” he added.

While residents struggle with the short notice, the Government maintains that public safety is its priority. 

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