Riya Mala 
[Photo: FILE]
The government is stepping up efforts to accelerate urban development, improve public services, and modernise waste management systems as part of a broader push to support Fiji’s growing towns and cities.
In the 2026/2027 National Budget, the Ministry of Local Government has been allocated $29.5 million.
The funding will focus on reducing delays in development approvals, improving planning systems, and updating outdated laws to better support investment and urban expansion.
Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel says a major reform push is also underway in waste management, with $3 million allocated to rehabilitate dumpsites in the Western Division.
“These initiatives are aimed at creating new economic centres, attracting investment, generating jobs, and bringing development opportunities closer to our rural communities.”
A key initiative in the coming financial year is the launch of Fiji’s first municipal sorting-at-source programme in Sigatoka.
Under the pilot, households will separate recyclable and household waste at source, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills and supporting a cleaner environment.
Immanuel says urban expansion will also be strengthened through new town development initiatives, including the proposed declaration of Navua as a town.
He adds that $3.8 million has been allocated for new growth centres such as Nabouwalu and Keiyasi to bring economic opportunities closer to rural communities.
The budget signals a push to fast-track urban growth, improve environmental management, and expand development beyond major centres into rural Fiji.
