The Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, plans to hold a meeting today with representatives from the mataqali Nabukebuke and officials from the Namosi Joint Venture (NJV) amid concerns from customary landowners regarding unresolved land issues and outstanding compensation payments.
This meeting comes after members of Mataqali Nabukebuke expressed their dissatisfaction over unpaid compensation, with claims that NJV owes them a total of $75,000 since last year. The minister expressed optimism about the outcome, emphasizing the importance of addressing genuine concerns of landowners while also considering the investments from companies like NJV. “We need to be optimistic about these things,” he stated, highlighting the ministry’s role in finding a balanced solution.
Petero Saunivalu, spokesman for the Mataqali Nabukebuke and director of Nabukebuke Holdings, pointed out that the trust representing them is also seeking the eviction of NJV from the Waisoi Base Camp. They allege that the company is unlawfully occupying their land, as the special prospecting license issued to NJV has reportedly expired. Saunivalu has called for immediate enforcement actions from the director of mines against this alleged unlawful occupation.
In response to the ongoing tensions, NJV Country Manager Netava Bakaniceva confirmed that the previously frozen compensation payment of $75,000 will be disbursed to the trustees today, a move that could pave the way for resolving the longstanding issues between the parties involved.
Overall, the meeting holds potential for a constructive dialogue aimed at resolving conflicts between customary landowners and commercial interests, indicating a readiness from both sides to seek an amicable resolution.
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