The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs has celebrated a significant achievement, registering 13,728 new members in the iVola ni Kawa Bula (VKB), a crucial system for documenting the ancestral lineages of the iTaukei community. This development was disclosed by Permanent Secretary Pita Tagicakirewa during the presentation of the iTaukei Affairs Annual Report for the years 2017 to 2019.
Tagicakirewa highlighted that the Ministry not only finalized numerous traditional titles but also successfully mapped out and gazetted 24 village boundaries, which play a vital role in preserving iTaukei heritage. There is a growing demand for services linked to the VKB, illustrating the success of initiatives aimed at supporting the iTaukei people.
One key effort includes reaching out to the diaspora, particularly Fijians serving in the British Armed Forces in England and those residing in the United States and Australia. Through dedicated roadshows, the Ministry aimed to bring its services closer to these communities, with the VKB being a particularly popular service.
In addition to the new registrations, the Ministry issued 407 traditional titles, further solidifying the preservation of cultural identity. Tagicakirewa encouraged the iTaukei community to continue registering their children in the VKB system to facilitate access to various governmental documentation processes and initiatives.
These enhancements resonate with ongoing government efforts to promote traditional leadership and governance structures within Fiji. A recent collaboration between the iTaukei Affairs Ministry and the Ministry of Justice signifies a commitment to streamline services and improve the VKB system, vital for preventing disputes related to land and chief titles.
This proactive approach to engage Fijians in their heritage while enhancing service delivery offers a positive outlook for the iTaukei community, fostering a sense of identity, unity, and empowerment. The dedication to preserve cultural practices and improve community services underscores a collective effort towards sustainable development and a brighter future for Fiji.
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