Landowners expressed significant dissatisfaction regarding long-term land leases during a recent consultation focused on the review of the Land Use Act 2010 at the Civic Centre in Suva. The sentiments conveyed were centered on their demand for increased control, transparency, and better financial returns.
Marica Seniloli Sokotaka Hussein, a lawyer representing landowners, highlighted a strong desire among them to regain control over their land once existing leases expire. She emphasized that it is crucial for the government to seek landowners’ consent before automatically renewing 99-year leases through the State or the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), a process that has historically occurred without adequate consultation.
“The landowners want their land back,” Hussein asserted, advocating for a system in which the government must approach landowners for permission upon lease expiration rather than extending leases without their knowledge. This call for a change is rooted in a longstanding frustration about insufficient financial returns on their land, which many landowners feel has led to diminished economic standing within their communities.
“We are very poor,” Hussein continued, stressing the struggle of landowners who have not received fair compensation for their property. She pointed out that land, their most valuable asset, often does not yield the expected economic benefits, leaving them feeling disconnected from profits derived from developments on their land.
In addition to financial challenges, Hussein noted a widespread lack of awareness and education among landowners regarding the true potential of their land. Many are unable to fully grasp how they can negotiate favorable agreements. To address this gap, she urged the TLTB to take on the responsibility of educating landowners about the value of their properties and the returns they can negotiate.
Land Commissioner Dr. Joeli Varo acknowledged the difficulties confronting landowners, especially the scarcity of capital required for independent land development. He outlined the role of the Land Use Unit, which was established to empower landowners, enabling them to deposit their land with the government for development. This initiative includes free land evaluation and grants access to professional expertise.
“Once land is deposited, development begins immediately,” Dr. Varo mentioned, noting that a range of professionals, including engineers and architects, are engaged from the outset, ensuring that landowners eventually see their investment turn into tangible benefits.
While a regulatory framework to support these initiatives exists under the Land Use Act, Dr. Varo revealed that ongoing efforts are underway to enhance the unit’s capacity to ensure that landowners realize more direct benefits from development projects. This consultation is part of a broader national review of the Land Use Act 2010, which sees landowners increasingly advocating for reforms that emphasize consent, equity, and genuine economic returns on their properties.
The landscape for landownership in Fiji may be shifting, with landowners taking a proactive stance in advocating for greater rights, control, and benefits from their own land, which could lead to a more equitable future for all stakeholders involved.