The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) is making commendable efforts to advance gender equality in land access, having allocated 224 out of 1,301 leases to women as of June 2025. This allocation includes 117 leases to iTaukei women and 107 to women of other races, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity and equitable opportunities in land ownership.
Notably, 24 of the iTaukei women who received leases are members of their landowning units, marking a significant milestone in empowering women within customary frameworks. Mr. Solomone Nata, the CEO of TLTB, emphasized that these initiatives are designed to ensure that women do not face systemic barriers and have equal access to land for various uses, including residential, agricultural, and commercial purposes. This approach aligns with TLTB’s Strategic Corporate Plan for 2025–2029, which fosters equity and empowerment for all land users.
Nata further stated that providing women access to land is not only a matter of fairness but also essential for effective development. The TLTB has encouraged communities and development partners to support these efforts, promoting female applications for leases and working to eliminate any biases that could hinder progress.
These efforts are part of a larger strategy by TLTB aimed at enhancing economic empowerment among iTaukei landowners and promoting the sustainable utilization of land. The goal is to reinforce communities’ capabilities and create sustainable opportunities for growth, ultimately fostering a more equitable and prosperous future for all stakeholders involved.
Overall, TLTB’s commitment to reducing barriers and ensuring women’s representation in land access is a positive step towards empowering not just women but entire communities.
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