A recent meeting between government ministers and landowners aimed to tackle important economic development initiatives in various provinces while improving community consultations. Vitalina Duvuduvukula from Navunikabi in Namosi highlighted the significance of such discussions to protect their natural resources.
“For too long, we have had to plead for ministers to listen to our voices and concerns,” Duvuduvukula stated. She expressed satisfaction with the dialogue regarding consultation issues, emphasizing the necessity for development to go through proper communication channels.
Duvuduvukula also noted that while government agreements with investors may bring quick profits, they often result in challenging realities for local communities. “There needs to be better consultations with the villagers,” she added.
The dialogue featured key figures such as Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica and Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu. Another landowner from Namosi, Mareta Nayadi, pointed out that despite the government’s eagerness to attract investment, the actual impacts of development are not benefiting women and children in the community.
Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, stressed the importance of prioritizing people-centered development. Vasu remarked that the dialogue represents a significant step in providing a platform for landowners to voice their concerns, with an emphasis on improving communication.
He noted that early consultations can uncover potential issues, enabling proactive solutions that serve all parties involved. “Landowners often invest in the long-term well-being of their land. Their involvement can encourage sustainable practices and conservation efforts,” Vasu concluded.
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