Government has reverted about 15,000 acres of land to its original owners in Nadarivatu.
Native Grant 2 (NG 2) was handed back to the Mataqali Nadala of Yavusa Nubu following endorsement by Cabinet this week.
In a statement, the Ministry of Lands confirmed the endorsement followed a comprehensive review of historical records and longstanding requests from the landowning unit.
“This decision by Cabinet replaces the earlier proposal of a reservation and instead formalises the reversion of NG 2 to its traditional landowners, the Mataqali Nadali,” the ministry said.
“NG 2, encompassing approximately 15,000 acres (6070 hectares), was acquired by the colonial government on June 15, 1905, from Mataqali Nadala under Ordinance XI of 1905 at a normal quit rental of £25. The land was intended for multiple public purposes.”
After its acquisition, the land was used as a sanatorium, a forest and recreation reserve and to support agricultural industries, specifically cocoa, coffee for Indian immigrants with relevant experience.
“On July 18, 1986, a total of 560 acres and two roads of NG 2 were officially proclaimed for the use and support of Mataqali Nadala and Mataqali Navitini.
“In June 2002, Cabinet had approved in principle the reservation of the balance of NG 2 in favour of Mataqali Nadala, the exclusion of the area occupied by the Public Works Department from the reserve to remain as government freehold and the engagement of TLTB to facilitate leasing arrangements for mahogany plantation areas to the Fiji Hardwood Corporation Ltd.
“However, formal proclamation was never registered, leaving the reservation process incomplete.”
The process was finally completed this year following the ministry’s push to revert the land to the rightful landowning unit.
“This move seeks to rectify a longstanding land grievance and upholds the Government’s commitment to land justice and the rights of iTaukei landowners.”