Villagers from Natutu, Votua, and Nawaqarua in Ba are enduring significant challenges as black sand mining, initiated in 2016, continues to affect their main sources of income. The Australian company Amex Resources Ltd commenced dredging for magnetite in the Ba River, resulting in considerable damage to the river’s ecosystem.
Alesi Mataka, head of Soqosoqo Vakamarama Natutu Village, highlighted the difficulties faced by her community, particularly its fishermen. “My husband, a fisherman, now spends at least seven days at sea due to the scarcity of fish near our shores,” she remarked. She mentioned that the fishermen often rent boats, adding to their financial strain, and the lack of income and food has escalated tensions within families, necessitating frequent mediation by village leaders.
Tevita Evo, an advocacy project coordinator with the Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS), indicated that the mining has adversely affected local fisherfolk who depend on the Ba River for sustenance and income. “We are trying our best to present evidence-based research on the environmental impacts, but the damage is already extensive and largely ignored by the current government,” Evo stated.
Compensation from the mining operation has only been granted to the Yavusa (tribe) of Votua, which many residents believe is unjust. FCOSS chairperson Vani Tuvuki pointed out that only $240 per person was distributed in 2021, with a further modest payment in March 2023. “We are advocating for broader compensation, including for those directly affected by the environmental damage, not just the landowners,” Tuvuki stated.
Votua Village headman Alusio Waisele and Natutu Village headman Alipate Naqolo contended that their communities were misled by the previous government, which only outlined the exploration license without detailing the mining’s full consequences. They expressed frustration over unfulfilled promises and insufficient consultation, noting that their efforts to halt the project in March 2023 were disregarded by the Ministry of Land and Mineral Resources.
The mining activities have altered the flow of the Ba River, formed a sand island, and continued to impact the surrounding communities. Despite numerous attempts to discuss these issues, Alivereti Tuidravuni, Amex Resources’ general manager, declined to provide comment.