Yvonne Ravula 
The Housing Authority of Fiji has defended its sale of high-end residential lots, saying the move is part of a wider strategy to make housing more affordable for ordinary Fijians.
Chief Executive Officer Isikeli Navuda says concerns raised on social media do not reflect the full picture, stressing that premium lots make up less than 20 percent of the Authority’s land portfolio.
He says revenue generated from these higher-end properties is used to subsidise lower-cost housing for low- and middle-income families.
Navuda explains that this cross-subsidy model allows the Authority to remain financially sustainable, while continuing to deliver more affordable housing options.
At the Nepani development, he says only 36 out of 296 lots or about 12 percent fall under the higher-end Residential B category.
The remaining 260 lots, accounting for 88 percent, are classified as Residential C and D, which are more affordable and in some cases have already been developed and sold at lower rates.
Navuda has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring housing remains accessible, noting that its approach is guided by inclusive policies and supported through government and public-private partnerships.
He adds that the goal is to strike a balance between financial viability and providing sustainable housing opportunities for all Fijians.
