The Naitasiri Provincial Council has successfully concluded its recent meeting held at Tamavua Village on Thursday, coinciding with the return of the paramount chief, Na Gone Turaga na Qaranivalu Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, after more than a decade of imprisonment. The chief expressed a desire to host the provincial meeting next year to allow the Vanua o Navuso adequate preparation time.
Significantly, the council affirmed its support for the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). Chairman Jone Baledrokadroka remarked on the importance of UNDRIP in modern society, emphasizing that it grants indigenous peoples full access and rights to their traditional resources. He noted that while this declaration was issued by the UN Assembly in 2007, the current government only became a signatory last year, which entails a commitment to integrate its principles into national laws.
Baledrokadroka highlighted that UNDRIP consists of 46 articles, urging for their incorporation across various governmental frameworks. He acknowledged the slow progression in this regard but expressed optimism about improving the situation for Fiji’s indigenous population.
Regarding vacant land titles, Baledrokadroka stated the council’s aim to fill 80 percent of those titles by the end of next year. He indicated that discussions with the Native Land Commission (NLC) are anticipated soon, with the current ownership rate standing at just over 50 percent.
The council also plans to collaborate with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) to address the need for improved road infrastructure in Naitasiri’s highlands. The chairman noted the lengthy treks required to access certain villages, conveying a commitment to ensure better connectivity through road construction.
Education issues were also addressed, including teacher shortages and infrastructure needs in schools. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged these ongoing challenges and promised to investigate ways to support affected schools. He mentioned the necessity for prompt payments to transport providers and the Foundation for the Education of Needy Children (FENC) to facilitate smooth operations for schools.
Moreover, the province is assessing the formation of a business arm to foster economic growth, delving into available financial support from the TLTB and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs. Baledrokadroka shared potential initiatives to stimulate entrepreneurship among the iTaukei community, facilitated by the TLTB’s recent programs aimed at business development.