A recent dialogue held between government ministers and landowners aimed to tackle vital economic development issues in the provinces and enhance consultations with local communities. Vitalina Duvuduvukula from Navunikabi in Namosi emphasized the significance of such discussions, noting the need to protect their natural resources.
“For too long, we have been waiting for ministers to listen to our voices and our concerns,” Duvuduvukula stated. She expressed satisfaction with the discussions, which highlighted the importance of proper communication channels in development efforts.
Duvuduvukula pointed out that while government agreements with investors may bring immediate benefits, they often lead to challenging repercussions for local communities. She called for improved consultations with villagers regarding development plans.
The dialogue featured Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica and Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu. Another landowner from Namosi, Mareta Nayadi, remarked that although the government may be eager to attract investments, the actual outcome often fails to support the welfare of women and children in the community.
Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, the head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, stressed the necessity for a genuine commitment to people-centered development. Vasu described the dialogue as a crucial step towards enabling landowners to voice their concerns and improve communication.
He highlighted that early consultations could help identify potential conflicts, allowing proactive solutions that would benefit everyone involved. “Landowners tend to invest in the long-term health of their land, and their involvement can lead to sustainable practices and conservation efforts,” he added.
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