Residents of Navunikabi Village in Namosi held a peaceful protest on Saturday against the proposed EFL hydro dam project, voicing their strong opposition to relocating their community. Nearly 100 villagers, both young and old, gathered at the proposed site, carrying banners and placards declaring, “We say no to a hydro dam.”
The villagers expressed concerns about how they were consulted regarding the project, emphasizing that while they support development, the consultation process was inadequate and their opinions were not properly represented. The $200 million hydro project is planned for three sites: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, affecting both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces. This initiative is believed to be driven by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
In a recent social media post, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in seeking renewable energy sources in inland Namosi. Despite a series of consultations involving villagers, government officials, and landowners, the residents remain resolute in their opposition and are particularly concerned about potential displacement.
Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group from Navunikabi, highlighted the fears of many villagers regarding rising waters that could flood their homes. He firmly stated, “Our forefathers are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us.” Mekemeke criticized the lack of proper communication from project developers, noting that initial research was conducted without adequate consultation with the villagers.
There are also concerns that the hydro project could negatively impact local businesses, specifically the Namosi Eco Retreat. Mekemeke warned that constructing a large hydro dam would damage the existing environment and resources. He emphasized, “We will keep fighting. They cannot simply come in and propose to relocate us. That is not happening.”
LAMA Chairman Sipiriano Nariva reiterated the community’s stance against the hydro dam, stressing the need for government and stakeholders to respect the villagers’ wishes. He called for a halt to plans that could threaten their land and livelihoods.
Concerns about relocation were also voiced by 72-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu, who expressed the significance of preserving their culture, farming traditions, and ancestral heritage. Despite directives from their chief regarding relocation, villagers remain steadfastly opposed, fearing disruption to their lives.
Mareta Nayadi, 60, underscored the importance of their land for livelihoods, education, and community development, questioning the necessity of the dams since they already have electricity access. Similarly, 79-year-old Makitalena Nayara expressed her total objection to the proposed project.
Ratu Iowane Matanitobua, chair of the Namosi Provincial Council, clarified that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, and no formal plans have been established. Efforts to reach Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were not successful.