The residents of Vitogo, Ba, celebrated a significant milestone last week as Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officially returned over 3,000 acres of land, previously sold to the government in 1924, back to them. This momentous occasion took place during a ceremony where land titles were presented to representatives from several mataqali, including Nadakuvatu of Saru Village, Noi Batiri of Namoli Village, Vidilo of Namoli Village, Matarasiga of Vitogo, and Tunuloa of Vitogo.
The land, designated as Native Grant 187, encompasses approximately 3,177 acres. Originally acquired by the colonial government for the Lautoka Water Supply Catchment in 1924, parts of this land became unnecessary for public use over the years. A key decision was made in 1999 by the Cabinet to revert the land to its rightful owners while maintaining crucial public sectors such as the Tavakubu Cemetery, essential water infrastructure, and forestry land.
Prime Minister Rabuka characterized the land handover as a gesture of justice and trust, reaffirming past commitments while highlighting the profound cultural importance land holds for the iTaukei people. He also acknowledged the enduring patience and resilience of the traditional custodians, including chiefs, elders, and members from the five landowning mataqali, commending them for their role in achieving this historic outcome.
This return of land not only restores a vital connection to heritage for the iTaukei people but also represents a broader commitment to restitution and recognition of indigenous rights, fostering hope for future initiatives in land management and cultural preservation in Fiji.
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