The Naburenitu Clan (Mataqali) in Vitogo Village, Lautoka, unveiled a new $200,000 hall on June 28, replacing their previously cramped meeting spaces. The construction of the hall, which started in November and concluded in early June, was funded by the members of the clan.
Leone Quma, the Clan headman, proposed the idea last year during a clan meeting. Frustrated by not having enough room during their gatherings, Quma suggested building a new space. The clan agreed, and members each contributed $1,000 to kick-start the fundraising.
Subsequent fundraising efforts brought in an additional $4,300, and the Mataqali Trust provided the rest of the needed funds. Quma mentioned that the Trust, which was established by the previous Bainimarama government to support the clan’s activities, sometimes contributed up to $10,000.
Quma also noted that the Trust provided $115,000 for the hall construction and when funds were depleted, $6,000 was added to their account to ensure the project’s completion. However, even with the Trust’s significant contributions, Quma allocated additional funds himself, reinforcing his commitment to the cause. Despite receiving no external aid from the Yasana or government, the entire project was financed through mataqali land money.
Moving forward, Quma revealed that they plan to construct homes for clan members.