37 new homes to rise in Nabavatu as second phase of relocation project begins
Families affected by Cyclone Ana to soon settle in safer, permanent housing in Nadoiviri as construction accelerates.
Thursday 07 August 2025 | 05:00
Minister for Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, in Parliament on August 7, 2025.
Photo: Parliament of Fiji
Construction on 37 houses in the Nabavatu Relocation Project at Dreketi, Macuata, will start soon.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, revealed in Parliament today that this marks the beginning of phase two.
The project is a critical initiative to secure the future and safety of the Nabavatu community, following the devastation and land erosion caused by Tropical Cyclone Ana in 2021.
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This multi-million-dollar relocation project is estimated at approximately $5.9million and is structured into four main phases, each meticulously designed to ensure a smooth transition from the current vulnerable site to a safer, permanent location at Nadoiviri.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka
Civil and drainage works, along with land clearing, have now been completed. Additionally, the road civil works have been finalised by the Public Works Department (PWD).
Project contractor, Engineering Express Limited, has set up three terraces in the Nabavatu relocation site layout.
Terrace one is allocated for eight homes, terrace two for 18 homes, and terrace three for 11 homes.
Foundations for these homes are at various stages of completion.
“Engineering Express Limited remains committed to maintaining efficiency, quality, and adherence to timelines,” he said.
“The ministry, through the office of the Commissioner Northern Division, continues to coordinate closely with the contractor, ensuring smooth execution of each phase and addressing challenges proactively. The consistent progress and well-managed resources, we are confident in meeting project milestones and timelines."
Civil works at the new relocation site for Nabavatu Village in Nadoiviri, Macuata in January this year.
Photo: Supplied
He added that the ministry, through the Office of the Commissioner Northern Division, remains actively engaged with the landowning units, as well as the Ministry of Fisheries and Forests, to facilitate the procurement of timber for use in home construction and to secure the necessary logging licence.
The Nabavatu relocation project embodies a government-led, community-supported approach to climate relocation, funded through the Climate Relocation of Communities Trust Fund and bilateral support.
It represents a model for future relocation efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable communities from the increasing impacts of climate change.
“We remain committed to supporting the Nabavatu people until their full resettlement is achieved, ensuring that their new homes and community are safe, resilient, and sustainable for generations to come,” he said.
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