The Naburenitu Clan (Mataqali) successfully raised over $200,000, resulting in a new hall at Vitogo Village in Lautoka to accommodate clan meetings. The new building, inaugurated on June 28, was constructed from November to early June and includes a hall and two separate restrooms for men and women.
The proposal to build the hall came from Clan headman Leone Quma last year during a meeting. Each clan member agreed to contribute $1,000, setting off their fundraising efforts. According to Mr. Quma, the Mataqali Trust fund, established by the prior Bainimarama government and responsible for funding all clan activities, provided the funds, totaling $243,000, needed for the project.
While the trust’s contributions varied, Mr. Quma put aside additional funds whenever necessary to ensure the project’s completion. Despite no external aid from Yasana or the government, the project was fully funded by the Mataqali’s land money. Future projects will focus on building homes for clan members.