Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, expressed strong opposition to a proposed hydro dam project during a peaceful protest on Saturday. Nearly 100 residents, young and old, gathered near the site of the planned $200 million hydroelectric development, voicing their concerns through banners and placards.
While the villagers are not against development, they criticized the manner in which consultations were conducted and how their opinions were represented. The hydro project is intended to be developed at three locations: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, impacting both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces. Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, is reported to be leading the project.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in pursuing renewable energy sources in inland Namosi in a recent Facebook post. Despite a series of consultations involving villagers, government representatives, and landowners, Navunikabi residents are resolute in their opposition. Some have proposed relocating the village, a suggestion that has sparked further concern among the villagers.
Simione Mekemeke from the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group articulated the villagers’ fears, particularly the danger of rising water levels flooding their homes. Mekemeke emphasized their strong connection to their land and ancestors, stating, “Relocation is not an option for us.” He criticized the initial consultations, revealing that studies for the project were carried out without proper engagement with the community.
The villagers are also worried about potential environmental impacts on local businesses, especially the Namosi Eco Retreat, which relies on the area’s natural resources. “Building a massive hydro dam here would spoil what we already have,” he added.
Sipiriano Nariva, chairman of the LAMA landowners committee, reiterated calls against the hydro project, asserting, “We are here to say no to hydro.” LAMA represents various clans in Wainikoroiluva and Namosi and seeks to collaborate with the government to address landowners’ concerns.
Elder Sabeta Seniqumu expressed anxiety over losing the village’s cultural heritage and ancestral land, stressing that the community views relocation unfavorably. Others echoed her sentiments, advocating for the preservation of their way of life that is deeply intertwined with the land and its resources.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua indicated that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, with no definitive plans in place. Efforts to obtain comments from Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel went unsuccessful as they were unavailable for contact.