The Minister for Lands, Filimoni Vosarogo, has rebuffed allegations that the iTaukei Land Buyback scheme is merely a government handout. During a recent parliamentary session, Vosarogo underscored that the initiative is a voluntary agreement between buyers and sellers, dismissing inflammatory claims of government-sponsored land grants.
He clarified, “I’m aware, Honourable Speaker, that there are some who are spreading assumptions and outright lies that it is a government-sponsored land grant. Far from it,” reaffirming the rights of landowners to make decisions regarding their property.
The scheme is designed to assist iTaukei communities in reclaiming ancestral land that had historically been alienated. While the government facilitates and provides financial assistance, the final decision to sell rests with the landowners themselves, ensuring respect for their legal rights.
This buyback program, also known as Buy Back Scheme 3.0, seeks to restore land that was lost during the colonial era and empower iTaukei landowning units (LOUs). It represents a critical opportunity for these communities to reclaim their cultural and economic heritage, promoting a stronger sense of identity and community resilience.
The government has earmarked a proposed budget of $10 million for the fiscal year 2025-2026 to support the initiative, reflecting its commitment to reversing historical injustices related to land dispossession. The renewal of this scheme resonates with earlier efforts where multiple land parcels were successfully acquired, enhancing livelihoods and community ties.
This revitalized focus on land rights serves as a hopeful sign for the iTaukei community, signifying a systematic approach to rectify past grievances while fostering a future of empowerment and sustainable development.
Vosurago’s assurances, alongside the government’s commitment, highlight an essential step toward healing and restoring equity for the iTaukei people.
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