Villagers in Navunikabi, Namosi, demonstrated against the proposed EFL hydro dam on Saturday, declaring their opposition to the project. Nearly 100 residents, both young and old, gathered at the planned dam site holding banners and placards, expressing concerns about how their opinions were handled during discussions about the project.
While individuals in the village are not opposed to development, they feel that the consultation process surrounding the project has been inadequate. The $200 million hydro project is planned for three sites: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, spanning both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces. Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua, is expected to lead the initiative, which aims to find a renewable energy source in inland Namosi.
Consultations involving villagers, government representatives, landowners, and the chiefly household have been held, but the residents remain committed to opposing the project. There are also proposals for relocating the villagers of Navunikabi.
Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group, voiced the collective concerns of the villagers. He noted that although there are supporters of the hydro project, many fear that rising waters could inundate their homes. Mekemeke stressed the emotional attachment to the land, stating, “Our forefathers are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us.” He criticized the communication regarding the project, indicating that initial studies were undertaken without proper engagement with the community.
Villagers fear the hydro project’s environmental consequences on local businesses, particularly the Namosi Eco Retreat, which may suffer adverse effects. “Building a massive hydro dam here would spoil what we already have,” he cautioned, vowing to continue their struggle against relocation.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva reaffirmed the villagers’ stance, saying, “We are here to say no to hydro.” LAMA represents various clans in the Wainikoroiluva, Namosi, and Waidina districts and aims to collaborate with the government while advocating for landowners’ concerns before any development proceeds. Nariva urged the government and stakeholders to respect the wishes of landowners and villagers who fear potential negative impacts on their land and livelihoods.
Seventy-two-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu from Navunikabi shared her worries about the proposed relocation for the dam construction, emphasizing the significance of preserving their culture, agricultural practices, ancestral lands, and historical sites. Despite receiving instructions from their chief about relocation, she and other villagers are determined to resist, valuing the heritage and lifestyle their ancestors established.
Mareta Nayadi, 60, expressed her deep connection to the village, stating that their community thrives on the natural resources available to them for farming, education, and building their homes and community spaces. She questioned the need for the dams, especially since they already have access to electricity.
Namosi Provincial Council chair Ratu Iowane Matanitobua clarified that the hydro project is still in the feasibility study phase and that no plans have been finalized. He mentioned that data collection is ongoing and further discussions will follow with the villagers. Attempts to contact Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel for comments were unsuccessful.