The iTaukei Land Trust Board is encouraging landowners to invest their land in forward-thinking initiatives that turn land into sustainable livelihoods.
At the launch of the new Varavu Subdivision in Ba recently, CEO Solomone Nata said the board managed more than 50,000 leases, but developments such as the 28 lot project showed what was possible when landowners invest in their resources.
“This project is part of a new and bigger direction from 2023 to put iTaukei landowners first to generate sustainable returns and to transform idle or underutilised land into lasting opportunity,” Mr Nata said.
“Across Fiji, TLTB manages over 50,000 leases but it is projects like Varavu that truly show what’s possible when we invest in ourselves.
“We are building a future where landowners don’t just lease their land, they lead in developing it.”
Recently, TLTB confirmed taking a proactive approach to preparing for the expiry of 951 leases between Ba and Tavua under the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Act (ALTA) between 2025 and 2035. Until late July, a total of 765 of the 951 expired leases from Tikina Nailaga to Tikina Tavua had undergone full consultation and inspection processes, with the support and participation of respective landowning units (LOUs) in the area.
Mr Nata said that of the 765 leases TLTB had consulted, 413 were endorsed by the landowning units for renewal and 311 have been confirmed to have been reverted back to the landowners upon expiry, demonstrating the board’s respect for the wishes of the vanua.
“Our primary responsibility is to protect the interests of our landowners while upholding the principles of transparency and fairness in lease administration,” he said.
“Through extensive consultations and inspections, TLTB is ensuring that landowners are fully informed, involved and empowered to make decisions about the future use of their land.”
