The Stewards Alliance on Resources (SAOR), which includes the Fiji Council of Churches, Social Empowerment Education Program Ltd (SEEP Fiji), and local landowner representatives, recently engaged with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Manoa Kamikamica, to address pressing development concerns affecting local communities.
Chantelle Khan, Executive Director of SEEP Fiji, expressed appreciation for the chance to connect with government officials. She noted that the government’s willingness to meet reflects a commendable openness.
Khan also congratulated the Coalition Government on its progress over the past two years in building a stronger democratic framework in Fiji. The Alliance lauded the government’s initiative to develop a comprehensive National Development Plan (NDP) involving inclusive consultations.
However, the Alliance stressed the necessity of addressing the concerns of local communities as the NDP is implemented. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong underscored the need for development that prioritizes people, asserting, “The economy exists for the person, not the person for the economy.” His comments aligned with the Pacific Islands Forum’s emphasis on sustainable development in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific.
SAOR identified three key issues related to current development practices:
1. Unsustainable Resource Exploitation: Local leaders expressed alarm over unchecked capitalism leading to excessive natural resource extraction. Apakuki Pita Toga from Saivou remarked, “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 legislation have resulted in inequitable development benefits, fostering divisions within communities. Those living near development projects frequently face adverse effects, while financial advantages mainly accrue to landowners.
3. Accountability Challenges: The coalition raised concerns that although the government successfully attracts investments, the impact on local communities can be detrimental. Dominika Nariva from Namosi warned, “Development, as it stands, is not working for our women and children.”
The Alliance reiterated its commitment to the National Development Plan, stressing the need to safeguard Fiji’s natural resources for future generations. They called for a collaborative effort to ensure development advantages are shared equitably among all citizens, emphasizing the importance of patience and consideration of local perspectives in the nation’s growth agenda.