Nearly 100 landowners from across Viti Levu gathered at the Suva Civic Centre yesterday for a crucial consultation regarding proposed amendments to Fiji’s mahogany legislation. This event, facilitated by the Ministry of Forestry in partnership with legal consultants Siwatibau & Sloan, is part of an essential review of the Mahogany Industry Development Act and its accompanying regulations.
The consultation provided a platform for landowners from eight mahogany plantation stations to express their concerns and insights, contributing to the development of a sustainable and inclusive forestry framework. Similar discussions had been held earlier in the week by Mr. Atu Siwatibau with landowners from six mahogany plantation stations in Vanua Levu, suggesting a growing and proactive engagement with stakeholders across regions.
Attendees at the Suva consultation included significant figures such as Minister for Fisheries and Forests Alitia Bainivalu, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, and Acting Deputy Conservator for Research and Development Mr. Alivereti Naikatini from the Ministry of Forestry. Landowners were encouraged to provide candid feedback, which officials noted as vital for a collaborative process aimed at enhancing sustainable forest management practices and ensuring greater equity and transparency within the mahogany sector.
The ongoing review process is particularly pertinent given the frustrations expressed by landowners over unresolved issues with Fiji Hardwood Corporation in past discussions. A notable focus of the consultations is on achieving forest certification, which many believe is crucial for enhancing the market value of Fijian mahogany internationally. Many international buyers only consider timber from certified sources, making it essential to resolve these grievances and move forward with the certification process.
Engagement between landowners and the government reflects a concerted effort to address long-standing issues and paves the way for meaningful reforms that could empower landowners and improve the governance of the mahogany industry. As the review process evolves, there is an optimistic outlook that these consultations will yield positive changes, ensuring that all voices are included in decision-making and that sustainable practices are prioritized.
This collaborative approach signals a hopeful transformation for the mahogany sector, promoting equity and economic well-being for Fiji’s landowners as they work to enhance their representation and market access in the global timber industry.
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