In 2016, Tropical Cyclone Winston significantly damaged the Natalei Eco-Lodge in Tailevu province. The Eco-Lodge was developed as part of the Natalei Village Commercial Enterprise and provided employment for the Natalei nearby villages, contributing funding for priority development initiatives. After TC Winston, these benefits were lost, and the scale of the damage meant rebuilding required a vast community effort.

A submission to rebuild was made to the Commissioner Central’s Office and the project funded under its Self Help Programme in 2019, focusing on income generation projects for communities. The Conference Hall Facility would enable the Eco-Lodge to generate revenue from tourism by hosting groups and events.

In partnership with UNDP through the Governance for Resilience in the Pacific project, a risk assessment was undertaken and management measures ensured that climate change, disaster and gender and social considerations were part of the consultation, financing, and implementation phases of the project.