'Letters': Housing in Fiji

A large number of family units live in unsuitable conditions throughout Suva, other towns, and most of the rural communities.

Besides, a large number of households do not have proper services in clean water, sanitation, or even electricity.

Most informal settlements continue to mushroom, and some of the village communities continue to live in conditions that are unsafe or even makeshift shelters.

There are housing project schemes and land development schemes; however, the processes involved in accessing affordable and good housing are usually protracted, opaque, and miles apart in actual communication.

Serious issues do arise, reflecting on principles of good governance, such as equity, transparency, and responsiveness.

Any government that adequately embraces these facets of responsiveness should be assured that no community, be it urban or rural, would be left behind.

Citizens are due, at a minimum, regular updates on housing policy relative to guidelines on eligibility for any housing scheme and fair processes that prioritise those in greatest need. The failure to do this would further corrode public trust and widen inequality.

Let relevant authorities be advised: it is high time they hearken to heightened experiences in reality, both city and village. Good governance is not in the plans; it should be pragmatic and all-inclusive.

Feedback: letters@fijisun.com.fj