A recent discussion between government ministers and landowners aimed to tackle significant economic development issues in the provinces while ensuring effective communication with local communities. Vitalina Duvuduvukula from Navunikabi in Namosi emphasized the importance of such dialogues to protect their natural resources, stating that villagers have long felt unheard by the government.
She expressed satisfaction with the recent exchange of concerns regarding consultation processes, advocating that development must go through proper communication channels. Duvuduvukula noted that while government agreements with investors could yield immediate benefits, they often lead to challenging consequences for the community.
Another landowner, Mareta Nayadi, pointed out that although the government may easily welcome investment, the reality shows that development often fails to benefit women and children in their communities. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, called for authentic commitment to people-centered development.
Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu described the dialogue as a positive step toward allowing landowners to voice their concerns and highlighted the importance of early consultation to identify and address potential conflicts. He emphasized that landowners are invested in the long-term health of their land and their involvement can drive sustainable practices and conservation efforts.
Leave a comment