The Naitasiri Provincial Council has successfully concluded its meeting, following the tradition of Fiji’s other provincial councils. This gathering took place in Tamavua Village on Thursday and was particularly significant as it marked the return of the paramount chief, Na Gone Turaga na Qaranivalu Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, who had spent over a decade in prison.
During the meeting, the Qaranivalu expressed his wish to host the next year’s provincial meeting in Tamavua Village, allowing the Vanua o Navuso sufficient time to prepare, since it will be his first hosting since his release.
A key resolution from the meeting was the council’s endorsement of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Naitasiri Provincial Council chairman Jone Baledrokadroka emphasized the importance of UNDRIP in modern society, as it affirms indigenous peoples’ access to their traditional resources. He explained that although UNDRIP was declared by the UN Assembly in 2007, only last year did the government sign on to it, initiating a ratification process that requires integration into national law.
Baledrokadroka highlighted that UNDRIP has 46 articles and stressed the need to implement them across government departments, with a particular focus on Article 5, which addresses indigenous rights to maintain their own institutions. He expressed optimism about the potential impact of these measures on the iTaukei people, who, according to him, are currently lagging behind in various social and economic indicators.
In addressing vacant land titles, Baledrokadroka revealed the province’s goal to fill up to 80 percent of these titles by the end of the upcoming year. Despite a current rate of only around 54 percent, he is hopeful that the Native Land Commission will soon visit Naitasiri to assist in reviewing and appointing new title holders.
The council also agreed to collaborate with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) to enhance road construction in the province’s highlands, an issue that has persistently been raised in annual meetings. Baledrokadroka acknowledged the challenges posed by difficult terrain, where certain villages are accessible only by foot or horseback.
Education was another significant topic discussed, with concerns over teacher availability, school infrastructure, and the need for transportation assistance for students being raised. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro recognized these issues as prevalent across various schools and pledged to address delays in payments for transport providers.
Lastly, the council explored the establishment of a business arm to foster economic growth, considering various investment opportunities. Baledrokadroka noted the support available from the TLTB and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs to stimulate business development within the iTaukei community. The initiative aims to encourage entrepreneurship and enhance the economic standing of the region.