Navunikabi villagers reject Namosi hydroelectric dam project, accuse government of lack of respect

Navunikabi villagers in Namosi do not agree with the planned construction of the Namosi hydroelectric dam by Energy Fiji Limited on their land.

The organization known as Lomani Au Maroroi Au states that on July 19, 2024, it wrote to the Namosi Provincial Council and the Central Commissioner that the village is refusing to provide access to carry out feasibility studies on their land.

The organization’s president, Sipiriano Nariva, said there was no response to their correspondence or any other consultation from the government, but instead there was notification of the work by the Namosi Provincial Council on the same day and the EFL began the aerial survey.

Villagers also claim to have seen members of the Namosi provincial council receiving $100 notes from an Australian organization after the meeting on the hydroelectric dam at Navunikabi.

They say this is a clear sign of disrespect and repressive actions by the government.

The organization also highlighted that two weeks ago, the Tui Namosi Ratu Suliano Matanitobua visited their village and indicated that they will have to prepare for resettlement as the hydroelectric dam project will continue as it is planned for the Waisoi mine.

A letter from the Namosi provincial council office to Navunikabi village on August 26, 2024 highlights the approval of the helicopter to fly over the landscape surrounding the area where the dam is to be built.

Rural Development Minister Sakiasi Ditoka said they would not enter into these discussions.

We are currently seeking comment from the Namosi Provincial Council Office and the Australian High Commission.

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