Nasarava Water Catchment Lease Dispute: Landowners Demand Answers

A landowning unit in Labasa has raised serious concerns regarding alleged unpaid lease rentals totaling millions of dollars for the Nasarava water catchment, which serves as a vital water source for thousands of local residents. The Nabukarabe clan’s spokesperson, Osea Waqaninavatu, lamented their ongoing struggle for transparency and accountability, asserting that they have not received adequate answers about lease arrangements, despite their repeated inquiries since last year.

Waqaninavatu expressed frustration that the clan has been waiting for decades to receive proper compensation and to understand the terms of the lease agreements related to the catchment area. He emphasized that the situation transcends financial concerns, highlighting the need for fairness and respect for the landowners’ rights.

Asserting that no lease payments have been made for over 70 years, he reiterated the clan’s demand for the immediate release of lease-related documents. The growing impatience within the clan reflects their feelings of neglect regarding their entitlements.

The chief executive officer of the iTaukei Land Trust Board, Solomone Nata, did not specify the amount owed to the clan but mentioned that they are in the process of finalizing a long-term lease agreement with the Water Authority of Fiji concerning the Nasarava water source. The Water Authority has stated that it is actively working with the iTaukei Land Trust Board and the landowners to advance the leasing of additional upstream areas of the Nasarava catchment.

Nata noted that an offer has been made, and the Water Authority is in consultation with the Ministry of Lands to ensure that the leasing process is carried out correctly. Further discussions between the Water Authority and the iTaukei Land Trust Board are anticipated to continue addressing the leasing agreement for the Nasarava catchment.

This ongoing dialogue represents a hopeful step toward resolving the long-standing issues faced by the Nabukarabe clan, as both parties work towards reaching a fair and just agreement.