Landowners in the Vitogo district are expressing renewed hope as they prepare to reclaim 3,177 acres of their ancestral land in Saru, Lautoka. This land had historically served as an essential water source for Lautoka City until the primary water supply was shifted to the Vaturu Dam in Nadi. Even today, some of the Saru water catchment area continues to support the Fiji Sugar Corporation’s Lautoka mill.
Joeli Sauqaqa, a representative of the Vitogo district, highlighted the lengthy struggle for this land, which has persisted for more than twenty years. He shared, “We started fighting for this when I was in my late 30s. I’m 60 now.” Progress was made in 1999 under Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s administration, which initially showed openness to returning the land. However, subsequent changes in government stalled these efforts. With the current developments paving the way for the land’s return, Sauqaqa has pointed out the significant opportunities this could create for their community.
“The demand for native land is increasing amidst ongoing developments in Lautoka,” Sauqaqa noted, emphasizing that as the population within landowning units has grown, resources have concurrently decreased. The return of this land represents a vital opportunity for local development, potentially benefiting the community.
The landowners have expressed their gratitude towards the Coalition Government for facilitating this return, emphasizing the importance of respecting indigenous land rights. Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, stated that, according to the law, lands acquired by the government that are no longer serving their intended public purpose must be returned as “native lands.”
This land return is part of broader efforts to address historical injustices related to land ownership in Fiji. It aligns with previous initiatives like the Freehold Buyback Scheme, which has enabled many indigenous landowners to reclaim their ancestral lands.
The situation is especially encouraging for the indigenous communities in Fiji as they begin to regain control over their resources, enhancing their economic prospects. The government’s commitment to restoring land to landowning units promotes a collaborative approach to sustainable development and boosts community welfare, fostering a brighter future for traditional landowners throughout the country.
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