The Stewards Alliance on Resources (SAOR), which includes the Fiji Council of Churches, Social Empowerment Education Program Ltd (SEEP Fiji), and local landowner representatives, convened with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, to discuss pressing development issues affecting local communities.
Chantelle Khan, Executive Director of SEEP Fiji, expressed appreciation for the dialogue with government leaders, noting, “Their willingness to meet with us shows an openness we deeply appreciate.”
Khan also congratulated the Coalition Government for its efforts over the past two years to strengthen democratic processes in Fiji. The Alliance praised the government’s initiative to formulate a comprehensive National Development Plan (NDP) through inclusive consultations.
Despite this progress, the Alliance stressed the need to address local community concerns as the plan advances. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong underscored the importance of development that prioritizes people, stating, “The economy exists for the person, not the person for the economy.” This sentiment echoed the Pacific Islands Forum’s emphasis on sustainable development within the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific.
SAOR identified three main issues related to current development practices:
1. Unsustainable Resource Exploitation: Local leaders expressed concern that aggressive capitalism has resulted in the over-extraction of natural resources. Apakuki Pita Toga from Saivou noted, “We are no longer plundering the earth for our needs but for our wants.”
2. Division Among Citizens: The Alliance highlighted that gaps in national laws have led to unequal benefits from development, creating rifts within communities. Many living near development projects often suffer negative consequences, while financial benefits disproportionately favor landowners.
3. Accountability Challenges: The coalition raised concerns that, although the government attracts investment easily, local communities bear the brunt of the repercussions. Dominika Nariva from Namosi remarked, “Development, as it stands, is not working for our women and children.”
The Alliance reiterated its commitment to the National Development Plan, stressing the importance of preserving Fiji’s natural resources for the benefit of future generations. The coalition called for a collaborative approach to ensure equitable distribution of development benefits among all citizens, emphasizing the need for patience and the incorporation of local voices in the nation’s growth strategy.
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