Village Protest Sparks Debate on Hydro Dam’s Future

Residents of Navunikabi Village in the highlands of Namosi came together in a peaceful protest outside the Office of the Prime Minister on Friday, voicing their strong opposition to the proposed Wainikoroiluva Hydro Dam project. Approximately 100 villagers presented a letter to the government and Electricity Fiji Limited (EFL), demanding that the construction of the dam be halted.

The letter expresses deep concerns from the villagers regarding the potential impacts of the hydro dam on their culture, environment, and daily lives. Village chairman Sipirano Nariva articulated widespread frustration over the inadequate engagement they have received from EFL and representatives from the Australian Embassy. Despite previous interactions, the villagers felt that their serious concerns about the project—threatening their ancestral lands and cultural heritage—were met with dismissive responses, redirecting them to lower-level officials instead of engaging directly with key decision makers.

“Transparency and respect should be the foundation of any dialogue; instead, we have been sidelined,” Nariva stated. The Wainikoroiluva River is crucial for the villagers’ livelihood, and they fear that the dam’s construction could lead to environmental damage and flooding, impacting their day-to-day lives.

This opposition is not new; it aligns with earlier protests where residents voiced their dissent regarding the hydro dam’s potential consequences. Concerns have been raised over the adequacy of the consultation process leading to the project and the danger of misrepresentation of their views. Many community leaders have criticized the consultation process, expressing a desire for genuine engagement.

As discussions continue, there is hope that authorities will listen to the voices of the Navunikabi residents and work towards finding a solution that respects both the need for development and the community’s cultural and environmental concerns. The resilience the villagers have shown reflects their commitment to protecting their heritage and natural resources. Engaging the community in constructive dialogue could foster a more harmonious approach to development that values both local interests and sustainability.