Efforts to enhance the management of traditional titles, which remain significant in our country, are progressing well. The effective management of these titles is expected to greatly support leadership across the areas of land, faith, and the state.
In Tailevu, there are currently 879 traditional titles, out of which 483 are being managed while 396 are unregulated. This information was shared by the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, at the Tailevu Provincial Council meeting held in Vuci, Tokatoka, last Thursday.
Rabuka emphasized that upon reviewing our communities, it has become apparent that areas lacking the proper management of traditional titles exhibit minimal progress, hindered by ineffective local governance which prevents community members from fully benefiting.
He expressed gratitude for the acceptance of our land rights framework by the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
The government is vigorously pursuing various strategies to uplift indigenous communities, facilitating their roles and monitoring the enhancement of livelihoods, including financial support for local businesses, land development initiatives, and assistance for small businesses and cooperatives within their communities.
Three key priorities underpin the government’s strategy aimed at improving the resilience of our economy, empowering citizens, and ensuring good governance. Rabuka indicated that this plan is based on the principles of accountability and increased community participation, with a focus on the needs of indigenous peoples.
The council meeting also addressed significant areas of development concerning the outpatient services at the Korovou hospital, as well as the Nausori and Nananu medical facilities. Additionally, there are currently 75 youth organizations within the province, with requests to further support their operations through collaborations with government agencies.
There is a noted 48 percent engagement from the community with agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of taro, cassava, bananas, ginger, turmeric, and sweet potatoes.
Attention was drawn to the management of fishing licenses and the availability of mahogany in Nukurua and Sawakasa. The government has also allocated $3.2 million toward rural and outer island development initiatives to aid custodians of our traditional resources.
Prime Minister Rabuka outlined several pressing issues requiring dialogue, including climate change adaptation, disaster preparedness, cultural preservation, education of children, sustainable use of natural resources, health challenges, and protection of women and children.
He concluded by highlighting the importance of safeguarding our traditional resources while promoting their responsible use for community benefit.