A New chapter of partnership and prosperity has dawned for the people of Namosi following the official opening of Dakuinaroba Bamboo Park.
The community bamboo park, opened two days ago and described as a tangible symbol of Fiji’s move towards decentralised conservation, was officially opened by the Minister Fisheries and Forests Alitia Bainivalu on the land of the Mataqali Namara.
Speaking at the launch Ms Bainivalu said the park was not just a tourism site, but the beginning of “a new era of partnership” and sustainable custodianship of the country’s natural resources.
“For too long, conservation was seen as solely a government responsibility, today, we declare that it is a shared economic and environmental partnership.” Ms Bainivalu said.
She said the Dakuinaroba Bamboo Park provided the Mataqali Namara with Direct opportunity to generate sustainable income through ecotourism and value-added bamboo products, while safeguarding traditional forests for future generations.
“This initiative allows communities to earn from protecting their forests, not destroying them,” he said.
The project aligns closely with the new Forestry Act, which was passed by Parliament.
Ms Bainivalu said the legislation formally recognised the vanua as primary stakeholders and beneficiaries of forest resources.
“It secures your investment, legitimises your business enterprise, and ensures the ministry acts as your technical partner – not your overseer.”
Members of the Mataqali Namara were present at the opening, marking the culmination of years of planning, organisation, and community consultation.
The park is also expected to support Fiji’s National Climate Resilience Goals and contribute to the global target of protecting 30 per cent of land and marine areas by 2030.
“This investment is more than just infrastructure; it is a precious seed planted deep in the soil of your ancestral land.”
The Mataqali Namara was commended for developing its business plan and market strategy, with Ms Bainivalu describing the project as a beacon of success for other communities in Namosi and across Fiji seeking sustainable economic pathways.
