Landowners in Fiji have received a significant boost for the pine industry with a distribution of $6 million in Lease Security Bonus Payments (LSBP). This historic payment symbolizes both recognition and support for the landowners who have participated in leasing their land to Fiji Pine Limited (FPL) since the program’s inception in 2013.
During the recent ceremony held at the Fiji Pine headquarters in Lautoka, Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Alitia Bainivalu, emphasized the strong relationship between landowners and FPL. She distributed individual cheques while highlighting that the total payments to date have reached $42.5 million. This year’s distribution will be the last of its kind, as starting in 2025, FPL will transition to directly depositing dividends into landowners’ accounts based on the department’s performance.
Bainivalu pointed out the broader economic benefits generated from the pine industry, including various payments that support landowners directly as well as community development initiatives. The industry is known to support approximately 25,000 landowners across 422 landowning units and employs around 500 staff members along with numerous contractors offering services in logging and transport.
The landowners from Yavusa Nasolo have already strategized on how to utilize their share, amounting to $151,677.03. Plans include improving educational infrastructure and providing financial support for university students from their community. Additional initiatives are in the works, including the establishment of poultry farms, village canteens, and baking businesses. They are also focusing on empowering women and single mothers through workshops that will help them enhance and manage their small businesses.
This collective initiative is a testament to the resilience and creativity of the Fijian communities, reflecting a hopeful and sustained investment in the future of both individual families and the broader economy.
In conclusion, the positive outcomes from the pine industry’s performance not only reinforce the growth of the sector but also underscore the potential for continued development and prosperity within the local communities.
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