A recent dialogue between government ministers and landowners aimed to tackle essential economic development issues within provinces and improve consultations with local villages. Vitalina Duvuduvukula, a representative from Navunikabi in Namosi, highlighted the significance of this engagement, emphasizing the need to protect their natural resources.
“For too long, we have been on our knees, waiting for ministers to listen to our voices and concerns,” Duvuduvukula stated. She expressed satisfaction with the dialogue, noting the crucial discussions around consultations. “We want development, but it must follow the right communication channels,” she remarked.
Duvuduvukula pointed out that government agreements with investors often result in immediate benefits but lead to adverse outcomes for the community. “There needs to be better consultations with the villagers,” she urged.
The dialogue featured Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica and Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu. Another landowner, Mareta Nayadi from Namosi, expressed that while the Government may easily embrace investments, the reality shows that such development does not favor women and children in their community.
Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, emphasized the importance of prioritizing people-centered development. Minister Vasu described the dialogue as a valuable opportunity for landowners to voice their concerns, aiming for improved communication.
He stated that early consultations could help identify potential conflicts or concerns, fostering proactive solutions that are advantageous for all involved. “Landowners often invest in the long-term health of their land. Their involvement can encourage sustainable practices and conservation efforts,” Vasu concluded.
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