Customary landowners in Namosi have expressed strong opposition to the Namosi Joint Venture (NJV), labeling it a “squatter” and demanding its immediate removal from the Waisoi Base Camp following the expiration of Special Prospecting Licence (SPL) 1420. The Mataqali Nabukebuke Namosi Koro Trust, which represents the Nabukebuke landowners, asserts that NJV no longer has any legal claim to occupy the land and is effectively trespassing.
The Trust announced that operations by NJV have continued without the consent of landowners, despite the expiration of the special license. They have urged the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources to act promptly and enforce the law. As there has been neither a renewal nor an extension of SPL 1420, the Trust is adamant that NJV’s ongoing presence on the site is unlawful.
In its statements, the Trust reiterated its call for urgent enforcement actions by the Director of Mines against what they describe as illicit occupation. Furthermore, they criticized the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources for its apparent inaction regarding the expired license, while also condemning NJV management’s conduct towards landowners as dismissive and unprofessional.
The Trust stressed that the politicization of landowner rights must cease, asserting that they will no longer accept disruptions and disrespect towards the Mataqali Nabukebuke of Namosi village. They expressed wider concerns about the government’s failure to adequately localize international protections for indigenous peoples within Fiji’s Mining Act. This oversight, they argued, perpetuates outdated colonial-era laws that marginalize customary landowners and hinder their fair participation and benefits from resources on their land.
Highlighting the systemic challenges they face, the Trust pointed out that customary landowners are often unfairly labeled as “difficult” when they contest systems designed without their interests in mind. They are determined to change this narrative.
Grounded in the provisions of the Mining Act—which permits occupation only with a valid license and mandates land restoration post-licensing—the Trust has formally requested written confirmation of SPL 1420’s expiration and an acknowledgment that NJV no longer possesses rights to the land. They are seeking immediate action, warning that failure to do so could result in legal actions including claims for trespass, injunctions, and compensation.
Recently, the Trust convened a meeting at the Waisoi Base Camp, which included participation from landowners, representatives from NJV, and government stakeholders, aiming to seek resolution in this contentious issue.
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