Land acquisition for Waiqele Airport advances with emphasis on fair compensation and community engagement
The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has kicked off land acquisition for the proposed Waiqele Airport in Labasa, Vanua Levu, in a joint effort with Fiji Airports and the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB). The initial phase focuses on identifying strategically located land parcels, geospatial mapping, and consultations with landowners and tenants in the Waiqele area. Planned steps include detailed title and boundary searches by the ministry’s Geospatial Division, ongoing talks with TLTB and affected landowners, and careful planning for valuation and compensation under the State Acquisition of Lands Act 1940. Officials stressed that transparency and fairness are at the heart of the process, with ministry valuers and land officers engaging directly with communities to ensure fair compensation and clear communication.
Officials say the Waiqele Airport project is designed to boost economic opportunities and improve connectivity for the Northern Division, while maintaining a balance between development, land rights, and environmental responsibility. The broader Waiqele upgrade forms part of Fiji’s push to strengthen regional infrastructure and services, with a focus on safeguarding environmental and cultural considerations as development progresses.
Context and added value:
– The land acquisition effort runs alongside a broader airport upgrade that includes a temporary terminal nearing completion and a permanent terminal planned for commencement of major works in the coming months. Fiji Airports is investing about $8 million to cover consultancy, the construction contract, utilities, and fittings, reflecting a sustained commitment to modernizing Waiqele Airport. The airport is government-owned and managed by Fiji Airports, alongside 13 other airports, with Nadi International Airport currently the only one owned and operated profitably by Fiji Airports.
– During this transition, access to the temporary terminal is expected to be limited for about 18 months to manage construction needs, and cooperation from travelers and those greeting passengers is requested to help minimize disruption.
– The project’s emphasis on community engagement echoes recent government efforts to address landowner concerns transparently, such as coordinated discussions over lease terms and environmental impacts related to other airport and land-use projects. This broader approach aims to foster constructive dialogue, timely information sharing, and fair outcomes for all stakeholders.
Logical commentary:
– By pairing land acquisition with direct engagement through the iTLTB and ministry valuers, the government aims to reduce disputes and expedite project milestones, potentially accelerating employment opportunities and improved regional connectivity for Vanua Levu.
– The alignment of development with environmental stewardship and respect for land rights can strengthen public trust and set a precedent for future infrastructure projects in the region.
– Ongoing collaboration with landowners and communities will be crucial to address any compensation, lease, or environmental concerns as Waiqele progresses from land identification to construction and operation.
Positive outlook:
– The Waiqele project represents a significant step toward better air connectivity for the Northern Division, with expected long-term benefits for residents, local businesses, and visitors. If implemented with ongoing transparency and robust community consultation, the airport upgrade could become a model for balancing growth with land rights and environmental responsibilities in Fiji.
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