The Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu — known as the Na Vualiku Project — continues to gather momentum, with contracts worth more than FJ$22 million (US$9.7 million) already signed and several major procurements now underway.
The project, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (MTCA) in partnership with the World Bank, aims to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism economy for Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
From 28 September to 9 October 2025, the fifth implementation support mission was held, bringing together key stakeholders including government ministries, development partners, provincial councils, community leaders, and private sector representatives. The twelve-day mission assessed ongoing progress and discussed the next steps toward advancing Fiji’s tourism transformation in the Northern Division.
The mission team visited Nadi, Labasa, Savusavu, and Suva to review developments in critical infrastructure, sustainable tourism planning, environmental safeguards, and support for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), including women-led and community-based initiatives.
Among the key milestones highlighted were:
- Ongoing work on the Integrated Tourism Master Plan (ITMP), a 25-year framework for tourism growth in the Northern Division.
- The upcoming launch of a community-based tourism grant scheme later this year to strengthen small-scale tourism ventures.
- Continued progress on infrastructure upgrades, including Labasa and Savusavu airports, the Labasa–Savusavu road design, and climate-resilient projects such as wastewater and solar feasibility studies.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka said the mission was centred on collaboration and local engagement. He said the exercise was about “listening, validating, and coordinating with our communities and partners.”
Officials from the World Bank and MTCA reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that the Na Vualiku Project supports not only tourism development but also broader economic resilience and community empowerment in the North.
As Fiji continues to diversify and decentralise its tourism industry, the Na Vualiku Project stands as a model for regional inclusivity and sustainable growth — laying the groundwork for a vibrant future for Vanua Levu and Taveuni.
