The iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission is actively enhancing the registration process of Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB) to strengthen ties for the Fijian diaspora with their ancestral land rights. Acting Chairman Kitione Vesikula informed the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Affairs that the registration is currently free, although there is a minimal fee applied for certificates or copies.
Recent outreach initiatives have effectively engaged Fijians living in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, helping reconnect third-generation diaspora members with their heritage. Vesikula noted that six trial offices were previously established in various provincial areas, and the initiative has since expanded to 14 provincial offices, allowing individuals to access digitized VKB records in person.
Despite these advancements, Vesikula acknowledged that many iTaukei residing overseas encounter challenges with the VKB registration process, as it often requires traveling to Fiji or coordinating in person. This situation constrains diaspora members from fully understanding their land holdings and legal entitlements. To tackle this issue, the Commission plans to introduce secure online platforms for remote registration while ensuring the protection of sensitive information.
Social Affairs Committee Member Viam Pillay emphasized the critical need to preserve historical records, underscoring the importance of safeguarding manual files that have been digitized since 2014. Vesikula highlighted that additional investments and technical support are essential to secure the system and mitigate the risk of data loss effectively.
The modernization drive is poised to enhance transparency, accessibility, and legal recognition of land ownership, bolstering the connection between the diaspora and their heritage. This connection is pivotal in fostering domestic investment and encouraging active participation in national development. Vesikula stressed that while digital access is now available across all provincial offices, providing online registration remains a top priority.
The Commission’s commitment to improving the VKB system, alongside proactive outreach programs aimed at educating the diaspora about their rights and responsibilities, reflects a dedicated effort to preserve cultural connections. This initiative is integral in linking registration to land security, national identity, and the broader quest for empowerment among all Fijians.
The ongoing modernization and outreach initiatives signify a hopeful path for the iTaukei community, reinforcing their identity and connection to heritage while enhancing governance frameworks within Fiji. These efforts embody the community’s resilience and commitment to cultural preservation in an ever-evolving global landscape.