Landowners of the Monasavu Hydro Dam have received a total of $5.1 million in annual rental payments over the past two decades, according to the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB). This announcement follows a statement made by landowner Jope Masiyaka, who expressed concerns regarding the payments due to his community.
The TLTB clarified that although the management of water leases is not within their legal authority, Energy Fiji Ltd (FEA) has consistently paid water royalties since 2006, which have culminated in significant amounts for the landowners. Initially, the annual rental payments began at $160,000 and have been adjusted every five years, now reaching $500,000 annually.
Since 2006, the total rental accumulated stands at $5.6 million, alongside an investment portfolio managed by TLTB for the landowners that is valued at approximately $2.1 million. This investment includes stakes in Fijian Holdings Ltd, Fijian Holdings Unit Trust, and the Unit Trust of Fiji.
The Monasavu Hydro project has been operational since 1983 after the government purchased the land necessary for its construction in 1978. Nonetheless, over the years, grievances have arisen from landowners regarding their perceived exclusion from the utilization of the land within the catchment area.
This scenario reflects broader discussions on the management of compensation payments and land use rights for indigenous communities in Fiji, emphasizing the importance of transparency and fairness in financial dealings related to land resources. The continued advocacy from these communities indicates a growing recognition of their rights and may pave the way for future resolutions that are beneficial both socially and economically.
Moving forward, it is hoped that ongoing dialogues between landowners, TLTB, and related partners will foster a more equitable framework for addressing past grievances and establishing sustainable practices that benefit both the landowners and the wider community.
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