(Suva, Friday 6 February 2026)– The Housing Authority (the Authority) today marks a historic milestone with the official barrel draw for 101 model homes at the Nepani Subdivision, signalling the Authority’s return to building homes for the first time in over 30 years.

The barrel draw, held at the Housing Authority Head Office in Valelevu in the presence of the staff of the Ministry of Housing, the Fiji Police Force and selected Housing Authority staff, represents a major shift in the organisation’s renewed commitment to not only developing land, but also constructing affordable, decent homes for Fijian families.

Chief Executive Officer of the Housing Authority, Mr Isikeli Navuda, said the Nepani Model Homes project is the first of many housing initiatives planned nationwide.

“Today is significant. After more than three decades, the Housing Authority has resumed building homes again. The 101 model homes at Nepani are just the beginning. We are committed to expanding this programme and providing more families with safe, affordable housing,” Mr Navuda said.

The Nepani development begins with 101 two-bedroom model homes, which are being allocated today through a transparent and fair barrel draw process, overseen by Housing Authority officials, the Ministry of Housing, and the Fiji Police Force.

In addition to the Government subsidy through the Housing Assistance Grant, the Authority is also subsidising the cost of land and houses to the tune of $2.9m to make the homes affordable to the low-income target market.

Mr Navuda noted that the strong public response to the Expression of Interest (EOI) call to the Model Homes in Nepani issued last year reflects the growing demand for housing solutions across the country.

“While only 101 homes are being allocated today, we envisage producing up to 400 additional homes by the end of this year. These homes, which will be 2-bedroom and 3-bedroom homes are designed to meet the real needs of families—providing not just shelter, but stability, dignity, and a foundation for a better future,” he said.

The barrel draw process follows a thorough screening, selection, and objection process to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability. Successful applicants will proceed to the next stage, including the issuance of offer letters and the facilitation of applicable Government housing grants in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing & Local Government.

General Manager Finance & Administration, Mr Poasa Verevakabau, acknowledged the collective effort behind the milestone achievement.

“This milestone reflects strong collaboration between the Housing Authority Board, management, staff, committees, and our key stakeholders. Together, we are turning our mandated housing plans into reality and building stronger communities,” he said.

The Nepani Model Homes project marks the first phase of the Housing Authority’s renewed home-building programme, reinforcing its long-term vision of increasing access to affordable housing and improving living standards for Fijians.