Residents of Navunikabi Village in Namosi expressed their strong opposition to a proposed hydro dam project during a peaceful protest on Saturday. Nearly 100 villagers, both young and old, gathered at the proposed dam site, armed with banners and placards bearing the message, “We say no to a hydro dam.”
While the villagers are not opposed to development, they criticized the consultation process and the representation of their views regarding the hydro project. The proposed $200 million hydroelectric initiative, which targets three sites in Namosi and Naitasiri provinces, is believed to be led by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka previously acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in identifying new renewable energy sources within inland Namosi. Despite a series of consultations involving villagers, government officials, and landowners, the community remains resolute in their opposition to the project, with some discussing the potential relocation of Navunikabi residents.
Simione Mekemeke, a member of the LAMA group from Navunikabi, articulated the villagers’ concerns. While acknowledging that some support the hydro development, a significant portion fears that rising water levels could inundate their homes. Mekemeke emphasized the deep ties they have to their land, stating, “Relocation is not an option for us.”
He criticized the project’s initial communication, revealing that studies were conducted without adequate consultation with local residents. “They came, conducted their research, and only later informed us of their plans to construct a dam,” he explained.
Villagers are particularly anxious about the potential environmental consequences of the hydro project on local businesses, especially the Namosi Eco Retreat. Mekemeke warned, “Building a massive hydro dam here would spoil what we already have,” asserting their determination to resist relocation.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva echoed the villagers’ sentiments, stating, “We are here to say no to hydro.” He affirmed that LAMA represents numerous clans across Wainikoroiluva, Namosi, and Waidina in Naitasiri, and they plan to work closely with the government to address landowners’ concerns.
Nariva urged the government and stakeholders to respect the wishes of the landowners and villagers who fear the detrimental impacts on their land and livelihoods.
Villager Sabeta Seniqumu, 72, shared her worries about potential displacement and the importance of preserving cultural and historical connections to their ancestral land. Despite directives from their chief suggesting relocation, she emphasized the villagers’ strong resistance to the idea.
Mareta Nayadi, 60, expressed her deep connection to the land, highlighting its significance in their community’s livelihood, education, and development. She questioned the necessity of the dams, considering they already have electricity access.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua stated that the project is still undergoing feasibility studies and that no plans have been finalized. Efforts to reach Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comment were unsuccessful.