Landowners from the Vitogo district have expressed long-awaited optimism as they prepare to reclaim 3,177 acres of their ancestral land in Saru, Lautoka. This land had once served as a vital water source for Lautoka City, particularly before the region shifted its primary water supply to Vaturu Dam located in Nadi. Even now, a portion of the Saru water catchment continues to provide water to the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s Lautoka mill.
Joeli Sauqaqa, a spokesperson for the Vitogo district, revealed that the struggle for the land dates back over two decades, stating, “We started fighting for this when I was in my late 30s. I’m 60 now.” He noted that there was momentum in 1999 when the government under Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka showed willingness to facilitate their land’s return. However, that progress was halted when a new government took over. With the recent developments now allowing the land to be returned, Sauqaqa emphasized the opportunities it presents for the community.
“The demand for native land is increasing amidst ongoing developments in Lautoka,” he remarked, pointing out that the population within landowning units has grown while resources have diminished. This newly regained land represents a fresh resource for the local populace, allowing for potential development that could benefit them significantly.
The Coalition Government received thanks from the landowners for facilitating this return, reaffirming their commitment to respect indigenous land rights. Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, elaborated that by law, lands acquired by the government that are no longer serving their intended public purpose must be returned as “native lands.”
The return of this land is crucial, as it forms part of broader initiatives aimed at rectifying historical injustices regarding land ownership in Fiji, similar to previous projects like the Freehold Buyback Scheme, which has seen many indigenous landowners reclaim their ancestral lands.
This current situation fosters a hopeful perspective for the indigenous communities in Fiji as they regain control over their resources and seek to improve their economic situations. The commitment from the government to restore lands to landowning units underlines a collaborative path toward sustainable development and enhanced community welfare, encouraging a brighter future for traditional landowners across the nation.
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