Residents of Navunikabi village in Namosi, representing four tribes, have expressed strong opposition to a feasibility study proposed by Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) for a hydro dam along the Wainikoroiluva River. Tensions escalated during a community consultation attended by over 70 villagers who voiced their concerns about the possible repercussions the dam might have on their sacred land and river.
The i Taukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) requested approval from local landowners for a feasibility lease to allow EFL to conduct the study, aimed at enhancing renewable energy sources to accommodate growing demands. Osea Bola, an iTLTB representative, reassured the community that the lease was solely for the feasibility study and not for the dam’s construction. However, the villagers remained skeptical, evident from their lack of support during the meeting.
Sipiriano Nariva, chairman of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA), stated the community’s firm position against the project, declaring, “We are here to say no to hydro.” Residents highlighted their deep connections to the river, with many citing its importance for sustenance, cultural identity, and traditional practices. Villager Mareta Naiadi, 61, reiterated the river’s vital role for herbal medicine and food, a sentiment echoed by many who have signed a petition opposing the project.
Past protests have similarly showcased the community’s disapproval, with villagers criticizing the consultation process and feeling their voices were inadequately represented. Fears persist over potential flooding risks that could threaten homes and ancestral burial sites, alongside adverse impacts on local businesses, such as the Namosi Eco Retreat.
Even as the community acknowledges the necessity for renewable energy, they remain steadfast in their commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and land from developments they perceive as being pushed without their true consent. They maintain that their current electricity supply is sufficient, calling into question the urgency of further hydro initiatives in their region.
The ongoing dialogue emphasizes the need for genuine community engagement in discussions surrounding development projects. For any viable collaboration to take shape, it is crucial for stakeholders to heed the local perspectives and adapt their plans accordingly. This community’s proactive stance not only highlights their dedication to environmental protection but also underscores a broader need to balance development goals with the safeguarding of cultural identities.
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