The Lands and Mineral Resources Ministry has begun a land acquisition exercise for the proposed Waiqele International Airport in Labasa, signaling a major step in upgrading air connectivity for Fiji’s Northern Division. The move comes as part of a broader effort to transform Vanua Levu and bolster regional development.
Working in partnership with Fiji Airports and the iTaukei Land Trust Board, the ministry will lead land identification, geospatial mapping, and consultations with landowners and tenants in the Waiqele area. The initial phase will target identifying strategic land parcels, conducting detailed title and boundary checks, and engaging communities to ensure transparency and fairness throughout the process. Valuation and compensation will follow under the State Acquisition of Lands Act 1940.
Officials stress that the project aims to deliver more than an international-standard airport. It is designed to create economic opportunities, improve access, and drive long-term growth across the North, all while balancing development with respect for land rights and environmental responsibility.
The initiative is set against a backdrop of ongoing improvements at Waiqele. A temporary terminal is advancing ahead of schedule as part of an $8 million development project led by Fiji Airports, with preparations for a permanent terminal slated to begin in the coming weeks and major construction activities expected to start in February. The government-owned airport, managed by Fiji Airports, is part of a network of 13 airports, with Nadi International Airport currently the only profitable facility in the system. The ongoing upgrades are expected to enhance safety, efficiency, and travel options for residents, businesses, and visitors in the Northern Division, though parking and terminal space will be limited for about 18 months during construction, with access restricted to passengers and cargo consignors.
Past engagements around land use for airport projects in Fiji have underscored the importance of transparency and fair treatment for landowners. For example, authorities have addressed lease terms, environmental concerns, and compensation issues in related sites, emphasizing a collaborative approach with communities and interagency cooperation to resolve outstanding challenges. This pattern reinforces the government’s commitment to balancing growth with respect for land rights and environmental stewardship.
Commentary: The Waiqele land acquisition process reflects Fiji’s broader strategy to modernize infrastructure while ensuring communities are fairly treated and informed. By coordinating with landowners, environmental authorities, and airport operators, the government aims to deliver a transformative project that can unlock regional opportunities, improve connectivity, and contribute to sustainable development in the North. The positive trajectory of Waiqele’s development underscores a hopeful outlook for enhanced travel, job creation, and regional prosperity in the years ahead.
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