Efforts are underway to establish and strengthen traditional leadership roles in our communities. Recognizing these roles is expected to greatly aid governance within the nation, religion, and state.
In Tailevu, there are currently 879 traditional titles, with 483 actively recognized and 396 existing but not officially acknowledged. This was highlighted by the Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during a recent meeting of the Tailevu Provincial Council held in Vuci, Tokatoka.
He emphasized that conducting thorough assessments of our villages, especially those without clearly defined leadership positions, reveals gaps in community development, leaving issues unresolved according to local laws that could benefit residents.
The acceptance of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples marks a significant milestone for the recognition of traditional landowners.
The government is striving to implement numerous initiatives aimed at uplifting the indigenous community’s welfare. These initiatives focus on improving economic resilience, enhancing the empowerment of local populations, and ensuring good governance.
This framework is built on the principles of innovative development and increased local engagement, specifically targeting indigenous peoples.
In health, the general outpatient department has seen upgrades at Korovou Hospital, while Nausori and Dogo hospitals are also being renovated.
For youth services, there are currently 75 youth organizations in the area seeking support to strengthen their community programs.
In agriculture, 48 percent of residents participate in farming, growing crops such as cassava, taro, and yaqona, as well as ginger and turmeric.
A total of 738 fishing licenses and 144 crab licenses have been issued in the province, with plans in motion for an ice plant in Natovi.
Environmentally, the presence of mahogany trees in Nukurua and Sawakasa is noted, along with potential forestry development in Wainibuka and Dawasamu, supported by the government’s allocation of $3.2 million for rural and outer island development to assist indigenous landowners.
Critical issues that need addressing include climate change adaptation, promoting environmental sustainability, enhancing community development strategies, improving educational access for children, and addressing health challenges, particularly those affecting women and young girls.
The government leadership insists on safeguarding indigenous resources and promoting their proper utilization for the benefit of the community.