Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, organized a peaceful protest on Saturday against the proposed EFL hydro dam project, voicing strong opposition to the planned development. Close to 100 residents, spanning various age groups, gathered at the proposed dam site, holding banners and placards with messages opposing the project.
While the villagers expressed their support for development, they criticized the consultation process, claiming their concerns have not been adequately addressed. The proposed hydro project, estimated to cost $200 million, involves three locations: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, affecting both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces.
The project is reportedly being led by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka mentioning his role in the search for renewable energy sources in inland Namosi in a Facebook post. Despite a series of consultations among the villagers, government officials, and landowners, the community remains united in their opposition to the dam.
Concerns have also been raised about the potential relocation of Navunikabi residents. Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group from the village, highlighted the fear among residents that rising water levels could inundate their homes. He stressed the deep roots the villagers have in their land, stating, “Relocation is not an option for us,” and criticized the lack of thorough consultation during the project’s initial studies.
The villagers are apprehensive about the environmental impact the hydro dam might have on local businesses, particularly the Namosi Eco Retreat, which could suffer due to the construction. Mekemeke affirmed that they would continue to advocate against the project’s implementation.
LAMA committee chairman Sipiriano Nariva reiterated their stance, stating, “We are here to say no to hydro.” He emphasized the committee’s commitment to collaborating with the government to ensure the landowners’ voices are heard before any development occurs. Nariva called on authorities to respect the wishes of the villagers concerned about the potential adverse effects on their livelihoods.
Older villagers, such as 72-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu, expressed profound worries about the proposed relocation, asserting the need to preserve their cultural heritage and ancestral lands built by their forefathers. Similar sentiments were echoed by 60-year-old Mareta Nayadi and 79-year-old Makitalena Nayara, who questioned the necessity of the hydro dams, especially with existing electricity access.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua remarked that the project remains in the feasibility study phase, with data still being collected before any plans are presented to the villagers. Attempts to contact Tui Namosi and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for further comment were unsuccessful.