Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, staged a peaceful protest on Saturday against a proposed hydro dam project led by authorities. Nearly 100 residents, young and old, gathered at the proposed site carrying banners and placards that voiced their opposition to the $200 million project.
While the community expressed support for development, they criticized how consultation efforts were conducted and how their opinions were represented. The hydro project aims to develop sites in Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, serving both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces, and is reportedly driven by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in seeking renewable energy sources in inland Namosi. Despite several consultations involving villagers, government representatives, and landowners, the villagers remain firm in their stance against the project, with some suggesting relocations for their village.
Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group, articulated the villagers’ fears, saying that many were concerned that rising water levels could inundate their homes. He emphasized that their ancestral grounds hold significant importance for them, stating, “Relocation is not an option for us.” Mekemeke criticized early stages of the project for lack of proper consultation, revealing that initial research was conducted without informing the villagers.
Concerns also extend to the environmental impact of the hydro dam on local businesses, particularly the Namosi Eco Retreat. Villagers voiced their determination to oppose any plans for relocation, insisting on preserving their heritage.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva echoed this sentiment, declaring, “We are here to say no to hydro,” and calling on the government to respect the villagers’ desires and concerns about the damaging effects the project may have on their land and livelihoods.
The worries among villagers are compounded by suggestions of relocation, which Sabeta Seniqumu, 72, vehemently opposed. She stressed the importance of maintaining their culture, farming practices, and ancestral lands, asserting that the villagers were against any enforced moves despite directives from their chief.
Others, like Mareta Nayadi, a lifelong resident, underscored their reliance on natural resources for survival, questioning the necessity of the dams when they already have access to electricity.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua mentioned that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, with no concrete plans yet, and data collection in progress before any further presentations to the villagers.
Efforts to reach Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful, as they were not available for responses.