Pine landowners across Fiji celebrated a significant milestone as they collectively received a bonus of $6 million, marking a historic enhancement for the pine industry. The Lease Security Bonus Payment has been a fixture since 2013, acting as an annual dividend based on the industry’s performance, with total distributions amounting to $42.5 million over the years.
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu expressed enthusiasm for this year’s distribution, emphasizing the importance of the partnership with landowners who lease their land to Fiji Pine Limited (FPL). During the event held at the Drasa Sawmill Complex in Lautoka, she handed out individual cheques to representatives from 22 different tribes and the Fiji Pine Trust.
Bainivalu announced that this would be the last traditional cheque presentation for the Lease Security Bonus Payment, as FPL plans to transition to direct dividend payments to landowners’ accounts starting in 2025, providing a more streamlined approach. She highlighted that revenue generated from the pine industry primarily benefits landowners and the local economy, emphasizing a sustainable future for both the industry and the communities involved.
Fiji Pine Limited Chairman, Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure, noted that the sector currently supports about 25,000 landowners across 422 landowning units, and contributes to the livelihoods of approximately 500 employees along with numerous contractors in related services.
Representatives from Yavusa Nasolo, one of the landowning groups, shared their plans for utilizing the funds. Priority is being given to educational needs, particularly for university students, alongside plans for establishing poultry farms and small businesses, such as village canteens and baking ventures. They also aim to empower women and single mothers through workshops to help them enhance their skills and support their business endeavors.
This investment not only invigorates the local economy but also signifies a community-focused approach to development, prioritizing education and women’s empowerment to foster holistic growth within the villages.
Overall, this financial boost serves as a reminder of the positive impact of sustainable resource management and community investment, laying down a hopeful path for future initiatives and developments in Fiji’s pine industry.
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