Villagers from Natutu, Votua, and Nawaqarua in Ba are experiencing significant difficulties due to black sand mining that commenced in 2016, severely affecting their primary livelihoods. The Australian company Amex Resources Ltd began dredging for magnetite in the Ba River, which has had a detrimental impact on the river’s ecosystem.
Alesi Mataka, the head of Soqosoqo Vakamarama Natutu Village, highlighted the specific challenges faced by her community, especially the fishermen. She noted that her husband, who is a fisherman, now spends at least seven days at sea due to declining fish populations near their coasts. The financial strain is exacerbated as many men are forced to rent boats for their fishing trips. This decrease in income and food has resulted in heightened tensions within families, necessitating frequent mediation by village leaders.
Tevita Evo, an advocacy project coordinator from the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), stated that the mining activities have directly affected local fisherfolk who depend on the Ba River for their livelihoods. “We are working to provide evidence-based research concerning the environmental impacts, but the damage is already extensive and largely neglected by the current government,” Evo remarked.
Compensation from the mining operations has primarily benefitted the Yavusa (tribe) of Votua, which has sparked claims of unfairness among affected communities. FCOSS chairperson Vani Tuvuki revealed that only $240 per person was disbursed in 2021, with another minimal payment in March 2023. “We are advocating for broader compensation that includes those who are directly impacted by the environmental damage, not solely the landowners,” Tuvuki stated.
Headmen Alusio Waisele of Votua Village and Alipate Naqolo of Natutu Village expressed their discontent over being misled by the previous government regarding the implications of mining. They voiced their frustrations over unfulfilled promises and inadequate dialogue. Efforts to halt the mining project in March 2023 were reportedly ignored by the Ministry of Land and Mineral Resources, they added.
The ongoing mining activities have disrupted the flow of the Ba River, created a sand island, and further impacted neighboring villages. Despite multiple requests for comment on these issues, Alivereti Tuidravuni, the general manager of Amex Resources, has chosen not to respond.