The iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) has settled a longstanding case by paying the Mataqali Navunibua of Nayavu in Wainibuka a total of $150,000. This payment, described as an outstanding royalty, pertains to gravel extraction that occurred on their land during the construction of the Kings Highway back in 2008 and 2009. The iTLTB clarified that an administrative error had previously misallocated the royalty payment to another Mataqali.
This settlement effectively concludes a High Court case initiated by the Mataqali in 2019, which was formally resolved through a Deed of Settlement signed in December 2024. The board has expressed its commitment to collaborate with all iTaukei landowners to ensure transparency and equitable management of iTaukei land.
The recent resolution highlights efforts by the iTLTB to not only rectify mistakes from the past but also restore the rights and benefits of indigenous landowners, showcasing a dedication to justice and community empowerment. As the iTLTB moves forward, maintaining open lines of communication and transparency with landowners will be crucial to foster trust and ensure a fair distribution of resources derived from their land.
This is part of a positive trend where the iTLTB is taking measures to address historical grievances, aligning with ongoing campaigns to improve the management and ownership of land in Fiji. The resolution of such disputes serves not only to empower the involved communities but also enhances the overall resilience and economic potential of the iTaukei people as they navigate their paths toward sustainable development and cultural preservation.
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