Caption: Tenants proudly show off their keys to their new apartments in Lagilagi, Jittu.
Thirty two new home owners of the Lagilagi Housing Project today commended government for its commitment to provide decent and affordable housing to every Fijian.
The Lagilagi Housing Project which was opened today by the Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama is part of government’s participatory squatter upgrading project which is a joint partnership between the Ministry of Housing, the Peoples Community Network and Misereor (German Catholic Organisation).
Commending the housing initiative, 60 year old Dewan Krishna who is now a proud owner of a two bedroom unit said that he was grateful to the government for proving affordable homes.
“Before I only used to dream about owning a home such as this and I am very happy to be able to go home and show the house key that I received from the Prime Minister to my wife and children,” Mr Krishnan said.
“I used to live in the squatter settlement and I am glad that after today my five children and I will be able to move into a decent home.”
Similar sentiments were shared by Tarusila Koroi who has been living in Jittu Estate for 35 years.
“I am happy that now I can own a 3 bedroom unit and this is a relief for me and my family,” Ms Koroi said.
“We used to have problems before in the house that we live in especially during rainy weather when the roof used to leak but today is an exciting time for us with our new home.”
Emotional 61 year old Eparama Buluvale said that he was happy to finally receive the key to his new home today.
“I have four children and before we used to worry about water problems and use kerosene lamps but today that is all in the past,” Mr Buluvale said.
“Now we will live in a home with adequate water and power supply.”
Of the 33 now completed, 24 are two bedroom units, four are three bedroom units and five have been specifically designed for the elderly and disabled. One of these will be allocated to the Ministry of Health to provide health care for the whole community.
MINFO