The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) and the Fiji Hardwood Corporation Limited (FHCL) have entered into a cooperative agreement to form a task force aimed at verifying and rectifying the lease boundaries for FHCL’s mahogany leases. This initiative addresses boundary discrepancies affecting over 60,000 hectares across 122 leases in both Vanua Levu and Viti Levu, representing a significant step in improving lease management practices.
To support this critical initiative, FHCL Chairman Iowane Naiveli has pledged a financial contribution of $110,167.84. TLTB Chief Executive Solomone Nata highlighted that this task force will provide essential support for the corporation while also benefiting landowners, thereby strengthening relationships that are crucial for effective lease management.
This initiative will leverage advanced technology, including the Trinity Pro Drone, which is adept at surveying vast and dense regions in the South Pacific. The use of such cutting-edge drone technology is expected to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of boundary detections.
FHCL General Manager Semi Dranibaka expressed confidence in the partnership, calling it a vital move for improving lease management procedures and advancing efforts toward obtaining timber certifications. These certifications are vital for compliance with international market standards, which increasingly demand ecological responsibility.
Overall, this collaborative effort marks a positive development for Fiji’s mahogany sector. By addressing boundary issues and pursuing necessary certifications, FHCL not only enhances the market potential of Fijian mahogany but also ensures the protection of landowners’ rights. This initiative holds the promise of generating greater economic benefits for local communities and promoting sustainable forestry practices, positively impacting both the environment and the livelihoods of those involved.
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