Delays in the Cogea Relocation Project on Vanua Levu have sparked tension between the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) and the Ministry of Forestry. This conflict arose as both organizations presented differing explanations for the hold-up, which aims to support families displaced by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in December 2020. The cyclone left 18 households without homes, prompting the need for a collaborative project to facilitate their relocation.
In a recent statement, the Ministry of Forestry expressed concerns regarding FCOSS’s call for reimbursement of funds associated with the project, emphasizing that they had processed timber for 10 houses using portable sawmills and supplied mahogany. However, they cited operational setbacks linked to financial delays and logistical issues attributed to FCOSS, which allegedly disrupted the project’s progress. Reports indicated that workers and contractors had faced payment delays, ultimately affecting morale and construction timelines.
The Ministry also pointed out the absence of a formal memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the two parties, which has complicated communication and delineation of responsibilities. They expressed a commitment to support the community but highlighted that without clear agreements, coordinating efforts has been challenging. They recommended pausing timber milling until construction at the relocation site begins to ensure sustainable utilization of resources.
FCOSS responded robustly, contesting the Ministry’s claims and stating that inaccuracies regarding project progress were misleading. They reported that two houses were completed under the project’s initial costs and countered the claims about wood quality, saying that timber stockpiled before their involvement was unsuitable. FCOSS indicated that while they contributed significantly to training programs and logistical support, they faced hurdles due to the Ministry’s inconsistent engagement and lack of decision-making authority among its representatives.
As both entities continue to dispute their roles and responsibilities, FCOSS has called for a 2025 audit of the Ministry to investigate discrepancies in claims and assess the effectiveness of their rural initiatives. They urged government partners to ensure that citizen and civil society oversight is included in future projects for enhanced development effectiveness.
Amidst the ongoing discussions, the pressing concern remains for the families in Cogea who are awaiting their new homes. FCOSS has committed to working towards a resolution by June 2025. The hope is that through constructive dialogue and collaboration, the displaced families will soon receive the assistance they desperately need.
In summary, as both agencies confront their challenges, it is crucial to prioritize the needs of the affected families. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and collaboration in disaster recovery efforts. With ongoing efforts from both FCOSS and the Ministry of Forestry, there’s a hopeful outlook that a resolution can be reached to benefit those in need.
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