Residents of Navunikabi Village in Namosi expressed their opposition to a proposed hydro dam project during a peaceful protest on Saturday. Nearly 100 villagers, young and old, gathered near the potential dam site, holding banners and placards with the message, “We say no to a hydro dam.”
While they support development, the villagers voiced concerns over the consultation process and how their opinions have been represented. The $200 million hydro project aims to develop three sites: Wainikoroiluva, Wainikovu, and Waivaka, affecting both Namosi and Naitasiri provinces. It is believed to be led by Tui Namosi, Ratu Suliano Matanitobua.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka previously highlighted Ratu Suliano’s role in exploring new renewable energy sources in inland Namosi. Although consultation meetings have taken place involving villagers, government representatives, and landowners, many residents remain firmly against the project.
There are suggestions to relocate the village of Navunikabi to accommodate the hydro dam. Simione Mekemeke, a member of the Lomani Au Maroroi Au (LAMA) group, shared the villagers’ worries, noting that while some support the project, a majority fear rising waters could inundate their homes. “Our forefathers are buried here, and we have built our lives in this village. Relocation is not an option for us,” he asserted.
Mekemeke criticized the approach taken by project promoters, stating that initial studies were conducted without adequate consultation. He emphasized that the proposed dam could disrupt local businesses, specifically mentioning the potential negative impacts on the Namosi Eco Retreat. “Building a massive hydro dam here would spoil what we already have,” he cautioned.
LAMA chairman Sipiriano Nariva reinforced the villagers’ stance, declaring, “We are here to say no to hydro.” LAMA represents multiple clans from the Wainikoroiluva, Namosi, and Waidina areas of Naitasiri. Nariva called on the government and stakeholders to heed the landowners’ concerns before proceeding with any developments.
Villagers like 72-year-old Sabeta Seniqumu articulated the importance of protecting their culture, farming practices, and ancestral land. She highlighted the community’s resistance to relocation despite directives from their chief, emphasizing their attachment to their heritage.
Similarly, 60-year-old Mareta Nayadi spoke about the community’s reliance on natural resources for their livelihood, questioning the need for the dams when they already have electricity access. 79-year-old Makitalena Nayara also expressed her strong opposition to the project.
Namosi Provincial Council chair, Ratu Iowane Matanitobua, mentioned that the project is still in the feasibility study phase, with further data collection underway before presenting any plans to the villagers. Efforts to obtain comments from Ratu Suliano Matanitobua and EFL CEO Hasmukh Patel were unsuccessful.