The Ministry of Lands is actively revisiting 17 parcels of land in partnership with the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) with the aim of returning these lands to their original indigenous owners. Lands and Mineral Resources Minister Filimoni Vosarogo announced that these parcels, which are designated as Native Grants, have been under discussion for some time.
This initiative stems from a 1999 decision to return land previously acquired for public use that is no longer needed by the State. A significant aspect of this transition involves ensuring the stability of current leases associated with these lands. Minister Vosarogo highlighted that current lessees are satisfied with the plan to transfer lease administration to TLTB.
“The key is to establish a relationship similar to what the State has with current leases, ensuring that when they are transferred to TLTB, the same lease terms and connections with landowners persist,” he mentioned.
Despite the lengthy process—lasting 25 years—Vosarogo pointed out that it has been essential to conduct precise surveys to guarantee that the mataqali (clans) who originally entrusted the land to the State receive back the exact parcels as they were delineated in 1924. Expressing optimism, he noted that advancements in technology are likely to expedite future land transfers.
“We now possess improved surveying equipment and technology, allowing for quicker processing,” he stated. The return of these lands signifies a shift in financial benefits from the State to the indigenous owners, as TLTB will collect lease payments instead of the government.
One notable example discussed by Vosarogo was the situation in Lautoka, where over 3,000 acres of land originally acquired for water catchment purposes will be returned, as current water sourcing needs have evolved. The government is not only focusing on the physical transfer of land but is also encouraging landowners to view these parcels as potential assets for community development.
The Minister emphasized that considerable funds are held by TLTB, which landowners will be eligible to access. The government’s initiatives in agriculture and rural development, as reiterated by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, aim to maximize the potential of these lands. “Landowners have already prepared plans and strategies to better utilize their land,” he added.
This initiative represents a significant step towards rectifying past grievances and empowering indigenous communities, paving the way for sustainable development and ownership over their ancestral lands.
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