Residents of Navunikabi Village in Namosi made their voices heard on Saturday as they staged a peaceful protest against a proposed hydro dam by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL). Approximately 100 villagers, encompassing all age groups, gathered near the site designated for the hydro dam, displaying banners and placards with the message, “We say no to a hydro dam.”
The villagers expressed that while they support development, they are dissatisfied with how consultations regarding the hydro project were handled and how their opinions were represented. The proposed hydro project, estimated at $200 million, encompasses three locations: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, intended to serve both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces.
Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, is believed to be leading the initiative. In an April 23 Facebook post, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in seeking a new renewable energy source from inland Namosi. Despite a series of consultations involving villagers, Government officials, chiefs, and landowners, opposition to the project remains resolute among locals.
Concerns about the proposed relocation of the village were also raised. Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group from Navunikabi, articulated the fears shared by many villagers regarding potential flooding of homes due to rising waters. He highlighted the deep-rooted connection to their ancestral land, stating, “Our forefathers are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us.”
Mekemeke criticized the lack of proper communication regarding the project, noting that initial assessments were conducted without adequate consultation with the villagers. Concerned about the environmental repercussions of the hydro project on local enterprises, especially the Namosi Eco Retreat, he warned against disrupting the community’s existing resources and vowed to continue the fight against relocation.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva reaffirmed the committee’s stance, stating, “We are here to say no to hydro.” LAMA, representing multiple clans from Wainikoroiluva and surrounding areas, aims to engage with the Government to address landowner concerns before any developments proceed. Nariva called on officials to respect the wishes of the community, which fears adverse effects on their land and livelihoods.
Villagers like 72-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu expressed alarm over the potential relocation, stressing the significance of preserving cultural practices and historical sites. Despite directives from their chief suggesting relocation, the villagers remain steadfast in valuing their heritage. Emotions were high among residents, many pledging to continue protests until their concerns are acknowledged.
Others, like 60-year-old Mareta Nayadi, emphasized the community’s reliance on land and natural resources for survival and questioned the necessity of the dams, given their existing access to electricity. Likewise, 79-year-old Makitalena Nayara voiced her strong opposition to the proposed developments.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua clarified that the hydro project is still in the feasibility study phase, with no plans yet finalized for the dam. Efforts to reach Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful.