Budget targets urban growth and waste reforms

Fiji is stepping up efforts to foster urban growth and enhance public services with a significant budget allocation. The Ministry of Local Government will receive $29.5 million in the 2026/2027 National Budget to accelerate urban development and modernize waste management systems. The funding targets reducing delays in development approvals, improving planning systems, and updating legislation to better support investment and urban expansion. Minister for Finance Esrom Immanuel highlighted that these initiatives aim to create new economic centers, attract investment, and generate jobs, bringing development opportunities closer to rural communities. A major reform in waste management includes a $3 million allocation to rehabilitate dumpsites in the Western Division. Furthermore, a pilot program in Sigatoka will launch Fiji's first municipal sorting-at-source initiative, where households will separate recyclables. The budget also earmarks $3.8 million for new growth centers like Nabouwalu and Keiyasi, signaling a commitment to expanding development beyond major cities into rural Fiji and improving environmental management.

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These initiatives are aimed at creating new economic centres, attracting investment, generating jobs, and bringing development opportunities closer to our rural communities.