Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Koya distributed approval notices and leases to 70 families from Vitadra, Valebasoga, Boca and Avua settlements in Labasa today.
Koya says they are guaranteeing a future of land security for those living in informal settlements on State land throughout Fiji.
Koya says the 70 families had been occupying the state land with no legal status and did not enjoy the security of tenure but now they have the peace of mind of knowing that their children will have a place that they can call their permanent home.
The Minister says the families will have 99-year leases that will give them a sense of dignity and security that every Fijian deserves.
He adds the families can now have access to funding from mainstream banks and other financial institutions to help them build permanent homes.
Meanwhile, 888 entrepreneurs in Labasa received grants under the Micro and Small Business grants today.
Koya says these 888 people will join the other 15,018 recipients who have received grants till now.
Koya says this has impacted the lives of more than 79,000 ordinary Fijians.
He says the Micro and Small Businesses develop the community as through business ventures they are able to create employment and also give rise to other auxiliary services.
