The Fijian Cabinet has officially approved the return of approximately 7 acres of land, originally allocated to the Forestry Department for experimental purposes, back to the Mataqali Nadakuvatu. This area, known as NG 187, is part of a larger land parcel totaling 3,177 acres that was purchased by the Colonial Government from native landowners on June 28, 1924.
The decision to revert this specific land back to its original owners aligns with a previous Cabinet resolution from January 1999, which recognized that sections of the land were no longer needed for their intended use. Although the process to operationalize this decision faced challenges, including disputes among landowning units and delays in surveying, the necessary steps have now been completed. The land has been surveyed and registered, allowing it to be returned to the Mataqali Nadakuvatu, ensuring that all existing leases under NG 187 remain intact and are administered by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) without loss of rights.
This move represents a positive stride in addressing historical grievances related to land ownership in Fiji. It embodies the ongoing efforts to rectify injustices experienced by indigenous communities, enabling them to reclaim their ancestral lands. Furthermore, the government is committed to improving relationships with traditional landowners, enhancing community ties, and promoting sustainable land use practices, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment among the iTaukei population.
Overall, this development exemplifies a hopeful trajectory towards restoring indigenous rights and acknowledges the importance of protecting ancestral lands for future generations. It signifies a greater movement within Fiji to address historical land ownership disputes, encouraging social and economic revitalization for local communities.
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