Landowners in Namosi are seeking greater control over mineral resource development within their province.
The province’s cautious stance toward mineral resource development is detailed in their submission regarding the draft Mineral Exploitation and Exploration Bill.
“As landowners, we recognize the potential economic benefits that mineral exploration and exploitation can bring to our country,” Namosi landowners stated. “However, we also believe it is crucial to ensure that the interests of landowners and local communities are protected and respected throughout the process.”
The council’s views align with those of resource owners in Navuniivi, Navitilevu, and Ra, emphasizing the need for an iTaukei draft of the legislation, a requirement of 50 percent landowner approval for special prospecting licenses and mining leases, widespread consultations, and efforts to ensure landowners fully understand the nature of such projects.
After consultations with the landowners and Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, and with the endorsement of the Namosi Provincial Council Meeting held at the Pearl Hotel on Thursday, July 4, 2024, the province seeks the following:
– The Government and investors to jointly establish a local facility for inspecting ores removed from the area.
– Investors to conduct tests on ore samples at the local facility and provide the results to the native land-owning unit, who shall have the right to inspect and verify the results.
– The Government to ensure that the local facility is equipped with adequate equipment and personnel for thorough examinations of ore samples and that the investor complies with all applicable laws and regulations related to mining operations.
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