Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, gathered on Saturday to protest against the proposed EFL hydro dam project, voicing their concerns about the potential impacts on their community. Nearly 100 residents of all ages participated in the peaceful demonstration, displaying banners that declared their opposition to the project.
While the villagers expressed their support for development, they criticized the inadequate consultation processes that have taken place and how their opinions have been represented. The proposed $200 million hydro project involves three sites in the Namosi and Naitasiri provinces: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka.
The initiative is believed to be led by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka had previously highlighted Ratu Suliano’s role in seeking new renewable energy sources in inland Namosi.
Despite a series of discussions involving villagers, government officials, and landowners, the community remains firmly opposed to the project. Suggestions have been made to relocate the village, which has sparked significant fear among residents. Simione Mekemeke of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group articulated the concerns of many villagers who fear that flooding from the dam could threaten their homes.
“Our ancestors are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us,” Mekemeke stated, criticizing the project’s communication strategy and the lack of proper engagement prior to the studies that were conducted.
The villagers are also concerned about how the hydro project could negatively impact local businesses, including the Namosi Eco Retreat. “Building a massive hydro dam here would spoil what we already have,” Mekemeke warned, promising that they would continue to fight against the proposal.
LAMA’s chairman, Sipiriano Nariva, reiterated their stance by stating, “We are here to say no to hydro.” He emphasized that LAMA comprises various clans in the Wainikoroiluva, Namosi, and Waidina areas and urged the government and stakeholders to consider the landowners’ concerns before progressing with any developments.
Sabeta Seniqumu, a 72-year-old villager, expressed her worries regarding the proposal to relocate her community and the potential loss of their cultural identity and historical sites. She, along with others, is resolute in opposing both the hydro project and the idea of moving from their ancestral land.
Mareta Nayadi, 60, highlighted the community’s dependence on the land for their livelihoods, stressing that they already have sufficient electricity and questioning the necessity for the dam. Similarly, 79-year-old Makitalena Nayara expressed her strong opposition to the development.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua indicated that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, with data collection underway before any further discussions with villagers. Efforts to contact Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful.