The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs has recently marked a significant milestone by registering 13,728 new members in the iVola ni Kawa Bula (VKB), a key system that tracks the ancestral lineages of the iTaukei community. This announcement was made by Permanent Secretary Pita Tagicakirewa during the presentation of the iTaukei Affairs Annual Report covering the years 2017 to 2019.
Tagicakirewa pointed out that the Ministry has successfully completed many traditional titles and has mapped and gazetted 24 village boundaries, which are crucial for the preservation of iTaukei heritage. The increasing demand for VKB services highlights the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at supporting the iTaukei people.
A significant part of these efforts involves reaching out to Fijians living abroad, especially those in the British Armed Forces in England and residents in the United States and Australia. Through targeted roadshows, the Ministry has worked to connect with these communities, making VKB services more accessible and popular among them.
Additionally, the Ministry issued 407 traditional titles, reinforcing cultural identity among the iTaukei people. Tagicakirewa urged the iTaukei community to continue registering their children in the VKB system, as this facilitates access to important governmental documentation.
These improvements align with ongoing government efforts to bolster traditional leadership and governance frameworks in Fiji. A recent partnership between the iTaukei Affairs Ministry and the Ministry of Justice reflects a commitment to enhance service delivery and improve the VKB system, which is essential in mitigating disputes concerning land and chief titles.
The proactive strategy to engage Fijians with their heritage and improve service offerings gives a hopeful outlook for the iTaukei community, promoting identity, unity, and empowerment. This commitment to preserving cultural practices while enhancing community services marks a collective move towards sustainable development and a brighter future for Fiji.
Leave a comment