Mataqali Nabukebuke in Namosi has issued a warning regarding their potential takeover of the Waisoi Camp site if the Namosi Joint Venture does not promptly release compensation payments amounting to approximately $75,000. This situation has arisen due to the funds being frozen since May 2025, based on legal advice that initially led the Namosi Joint Venture to withhold the payments.
Landowners have expressed significant concerns about trust and good faith in their dealings with the joint venture. Spokesperson Petero Saunivalu emphasized that this situation is about more than just monetary compensation; it is fundamentally about respect for the rights of landowners. “This is not about money. This is about good faith and respect for landowners,” Saunivalu stated.
In response, Netava Bakaniceva, the Country Manager of the Namosi Joint Venture, clarified that the funds will be released to the landowners this week, following their period of being frozen due to legal considerations. “The funds were frozen based on legal advice, but we are now releasing around $75,000 this week,” Bakaniceva reassured, indicating a potential resolution to the matter.
This development may help restore trust and foster improved relations between the landowners and the Namosi Joint Venture, suggesting a positive step forward in community engagement and respect for local rights.
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