The Fijian government is taking vital steps to restore ancestral lands to the iTaukei community with the reintroduction of the Freehold Buy Back Scheme, also known as Buy Back Scheme 3.0. Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, has clarified that this initiative is based on voluntary agreements rather than forced acquisition, aimed at empowering traditional landowners and enhancing investor confidence.
The Cabinet recently approved the return of this landmark scheme, enabling eligible iTaukei landowning units (LOUs) to reclaim ancestral lands alienated during the colonial era and sold as freehold property. Vosarogo emphasized that the government is acting solely as a facilitator in these transactions, which are made possible when freeholders choose to sell their land often due to personal or business reasons.
The government’s commitment to this initiative is underlined by a proposed budget of $10 million for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to support its implementation. The renewed focus will not only assist landowners to regain control over their properties but also enable them to utilize these lands for economic purposes, including agriculture and small-scale enterprises that significantly contribute to rural development.
Previously, the original Freehold Buy Back Scheme, which commenced in 1989, saw the successful acquisition of multiple parcels of land, facilitating the rebuilding of community ties and enhancing livelihoods. In this phase of the program, 10 parcels have already been verified, and negotiations are underway for an additional 11.
This initiative marks a hopeful chapter for the iTaukei people, promising to not only rectify historical injustices but also to establish a foundation for sustainable development. By allowing landowners to reclaim their heritage, the government is fostering empowerment, improved socio-economic conditions, and a stronger sense of community well-being. The revival of the Freehold Buy Back Scheme reflects a dedicated effort to respect indigenous rights and ensure that future generations can build upon their cultural legacy.
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