The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and the World Bank Mission Team today concluded their fourth implementation support mission for the ambitious Fiji Tourism Development Program in Vanua Levu ('Na Vualiku'), marking another critical step in preparing Vanua Levu for transformative infrastructure to support sustainable tourism growth.

The 7-day mission brings together senior officials from key implementing agencies and technical partners, including the Fiji Roads Authority, Fiji Airports, Commissioner Northern Office, municipal leaders from Labasa and Savusavu Town Councils, and key government and non-government agencies. These intensive discussions will review progress to date, strengthen operational frameworks to speed up implementation, and agree on next steps.

At the heart of the mission's agenda are three priority areas: environmental sustainability through the Strategic Environmental and Social Assessments (SESA), which is underway and planned upgrades to the Waisali Forest Reserve; critical infrastructure development, including improvements to the Savusavu and Labasa Airports and the Labasa-Savusavu Cross-Island Road; and urban service enhancements covering solid and water waste management systems and solar energy that will be installed on public buildings in Labasa and Savusavu.

Minister's Statement:
Hon. Vilame Gavoka, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, emphasised: "This program represents our government's steadfast commitment to balanced development that benefits all Fijians. As we enter this fourth planning phase, we're ensuring every decision - from airport upgrades to forest conservation - reflects the needs of our communities while meeting international standards. The strong collaboration between our local stakeholders and World Bank experts guarantees that Vanua Levu's transformation will be both sustainable and inclusive."

Fiji Airports Limited Perspective:
Mr Mesake Nawari, CEO of Fiji Airports Limited, noted: "A key focus of our current technical assessments is determining the optimal location for new airport infrastructure that will serve Vanua Levu's growing needs while minimising environmental impact. We're carefully evaluating all potential sites through our Strategic Environmental and Social Assessments to ensure the best outcome for both tourism and community development."

Fiji Roads Authority Insight:
CEO of Fiji Roads Authority Mr Apisai Ketenilagi added: "The Cross-Island Road project is progressing through its crucial planning stages. We're focused on creating transportation solutions that connect communities safely while preserving Vanua Levu's natural beauty - exactly as envisioned in our partnership with the World Bank through the Fijian Government."

The mission was updated on current activities and those that will be launched in the next six months, including a programme to support Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) working in the tourism sector in Vanua Levu and Taveuni. This initiative also provides specific support for community-based tourism and women-led enterprises.

Another major initiative that will start shortly is the development of an Integrated Tourism Master Plan that will provide a 25-year blueprint for sustainable tourism development for Vanua Levu and Taveuni, with detailed geo-spatial planning for specific tourism locations.

The mission will conclude with a wrap-up meeting between the World Bank and Fiji's Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation to share key findings and identify immediate priorities to drive forward sustainable tourism on Vanua Levu.