Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, staged a peaceful protest on Saturday against the proposed EFL hydro dam, voicing their opposition to the project. Nearly 100 residents, young and old, gathered near the planned construction site with banners and placards, declaring their disapproval.
While the villagers do not oppose development, they expressed concerns about the consultation process and how their opinions were represented. The $200 million hydro project, which covers three sites—Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka—affects both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces, and is driven by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka acknowledged Ratu Suliano’s role in the search for renewable energy sources from inland Namosi in a Facebook post earlier this year. Despite a series of consultations among the villagers, government officials, and landowners, the community remains resolute in opposing the hydro dam.
Relocation of Navunikabi residents has been proposed as part of the project, a notion met with significant resistance. Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group, articulated the villagers’ fears regarding potential flooding from rising waters. He emphasized the connection to their ancestral land, stating, “Our forefathers are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us.” Mekemeke criticized the communication surrounding the project, claiming initial research was conducted without proper consultation.
Concerns extend to the potential environmental impact of the hydro project on local businesses, including the Namosi Eco Retreat. Mekemeke warned that building a massive dam could ruin the local ecosystem and the community’s way of life.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva reinforced the villagers’ stance, stating, “We are here to say no to hydro.” He emphasized that his group represents various clans in Wainikoroiluva, Namosi, and Waidina in Naitasiri, and called for government respect toward the landowners’ wishes. Nariva encouraged relevant stakeholders to reconsider their plans, highlighting fears of negative impacts on land and livelihoods.
Residents like Sabeta Seniqumu, 72, also expressed concerns about the proposed relocation, emphasizing the significance of maintaining their culture, farming, and historical sites. Despite directives from local leaders, she articulated strong opposition to the hydro project and the potential upheaval it could cause.
Mareta Nayadi, a 60-year-old villager, shared her perspective on the community’s reliance on natural resources for their livelihood, questioning the necessity of the dams given their existing electricity access. Makitalena Nayara, 79, echoed these objections.
The Namosi Provincial Council chair, Ratu Iowane Matanitobua, confirmed that the project is still in the feasibility study phase and that no concrete plans have been established yet. Attempts to contact Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful.