MT Kasi landowners have vowed to work and support the Government with development plans of the mine site in Cakaudrove, Vanua Levu.
In a statement, the Lands Ministry said the landowners of the vanua of Yanawai in Dawara Village presented a tabua during their consultations to signify their commitment to the project.
Elders of mataqali Naveitokaki told government officials they were satisfied with the outcome of their meeting.
“Hearing what the minister revealed regarding some of the long-standing questions we’ve had was truly refreshing for me personally,” an elder said.
Minister Filimone Vosarogo outlined the Government’s intention to pursue a different model for Mt Kasi — one that prioritised meaningful landowner participation.
“Mt Kasi will not just be about royalties,” he said.
“It will be about empowering landowners to take part in and benefit from the entire value chain through service provision, business ventures and enterprise development.
“Our people will not be spectators. They will be partners.”
Mr Vosarogo said the presentation of the tabua was more than symbolic.
“It is a solemn commitment to a development path that is anchored in cultural protocols, mutual respect, and shared prosperity,” he said.
“This gesture marks clear support by the traditional landowning unit, acknowledging the Government’s commitment to an inclusive, respectful, and sustainable approach to development.”
