Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, voiced their opposition to a proposed hydroelectric dam during a peaceful protest on Saturday. Nearly 100 residents of all ages gathered at the site to express their concerns and hold banners stating their disapproval.
While the community is not against development, they criticized the manner in which consultations were carried out regarding the $200 million project, which involves three sites in Namosi and Naitasiri provinces: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka. Local leader Ratu Suliano Matanitobua is believed to be at the forefront of the project.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka previously acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in seeking renewable energy sources from the inland region of Namosi on a Facebook post in April. Despite a series of consultations involving the villagers, government officials, and landowners, many villagers remain adamant in their opposition.
Concerns have been raised about the potential relocation of Navunikabi, with community member Simione Mekemeke stating that many villagers fear rising water levels could flood their homes. He emphasized the deep connection the villagers have to their 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 transparency of the project’s initial communication, alleging that research was conducted without proper community input. He warned that the hydro project could negatively impact local businesses, specifically the Namosi Eco Retreat, highlighting that it could disrupt the natural beauty of the area.
LAMA, the landowners committee led by Sipiriano Nariva, expressed a unified stance against the hydro project, insisting on respecting the villagers’ wishes and prioritizing their concerns before any further development takes place. Nariva stated, “We are here to say no to hydro,” urging the government to abandon the project.
Concerns were echoed by 72-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu, who highlighted the cultural significance of the land and the worries surrounding relocation. Despite directives from their chief to consider moving, the villagers remain committed to their heritage. Other residents, including 60-year-old Mareta Nayadi, underscored their reliance on local resources for their livelihoods and questioned the need for the dam, especially since they already have electricity access.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua confirmed that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, with no concrete plans yet. Attempts to reach Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful.