Naitasiri’s provincial council has successfully concluded its meeting, joining the ranks of the 12 other provincial councils in the country. The session took place on Thursday at Tamavua Village, coinciding with the return of Ratu Inoke Takiveikata, the paramount chief known as Na Gone Turaga na Qaranivalu, after serving over ten years in prison.
The Qaranivalu expressed a desire to hold the next provincial meeting at Tamavua Village, allowing the Vanua o Navuso sufficient time to prepare for his first hosting since his release. A significant outcome from this gathering 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, stating it acknowledges the rights of indigenous people to access and control their traditional resources. He noted that UNDRIP, proclaimed by the UN Assembly in 2007, gained Fijian government endorsement only last year. He reiterated the need to incorporate its principles into Fijian laws, highlighting its 46 articles that require integration across various government sectors.
Baledrokadroka acknowledged that while progress may be gradual, it marks the beginning of a new chapter for Fiji’s indigenous population. He pointed out that Article 5 of UNDRIP pertains to indigenous rights to establish their institutions, exemplified by the re-establishment of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC).
Regarding vacant land titles, the council aims to fill 80 percent of these by the end of next year, with current coverage sitting just above 50 percent. Baledrokadroka commented on the ongoing workings of the Native Land Commission, expressing hope for their timely visit to Naitasiri to address these vacancies.
The council also engaged in discussions with the Fiji Roads Authority concerning road construction in the province’s highlands, an ongoing concern highlighted during their annual meetings. Baledrokadroka noted the necessity of improving road conditions in remote villages, where access often requires lengthy walks or horseback travel.
Education was another key topic, with issues regarding teacher availability, school infrastructure, and transport for students being raised. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro recognized these challenges as widespread in areas with similar geographic limitations. He assured that the ministry is working to address delays in transport payments and other educational assistance.
The province is also contemplating the establishment of a business arm to promote economic development. Chairman Baledrokadroka mentioned the exploration of financial avenues provided by the TLTB and the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs as they seek to stimulate entrepreneurship among the indigenous community. TLTB chief executive officer Solomoni Nata shared insights on available business development assistance during the meeting, which could be advantageous for local cooperatives and individuals interested in entrepreneurship.