IN a first for the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), a revised master development plan for its Momi Bay resort is being planned, this time with full consideration of the traditional custodians of the land upon which the resort sits, including its foreshore.
FNPF chief executive officer Viliame Vodonaivalu said through Momi Bay Resort Ltd, the fund will revisit the original 2006 master plan for the Momi development.
“Any future expansion or new projects will form part of this plan and will require consent from Vanua Nalolo for use of their iqoliqoli,” he said.
“While the foreshore is legally owned by the government, FNPF respects Vanua Nalolo’s traditional rights and will follow all regulatory approvals and cultural protocols before proceeding with any development.”
Highlighting this strong relationship between the Fund and resource owners, Mr Vodonaivalu said the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Vanua Nalolo reinforced a commitment to fairness.
“It provides reciprocal benefits for the consent granted to waive fishing rights, which enabled the development of the overwater bure and manmade lagoon at the Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, owned by FNPF’s subsidiary, Momi Bay Resort Ltd (MBRL),” he said. “Recognising that landowners benefit from construction on land while traditional fishing areas are also impacted, the MoU ensures fair and shared benefits.
“Under the agreement, MBRL has committed $1.02million in benefits over three years for community development projects and sustainable opportunities for resource owners.
“The MOU is a direct agreement between MBRL and the six Turaga ni Yavusa (tribal chiefs) of Vanua Nalolo. FNPF assumed responsibility for the project in 2009 after foreclosure and has since maintained positive relationships with landowners and qoliqoli owners in Momi.”
