Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka celebrated a significant milestone today as part of the land known as NG 187 was officially returned to the original landowning units of Vitogo Village. During the reversion ceremony, Rabuka expressed that the perseverance and belief of all involved had finally led to this long-awaited moment.
Reflecting on the lengthy journey, Rabuka remarked, “However, here we are, at the end of the journey, still standing and still believing that with perseverance, nothing is impossible.” He highlighted a pivotal Cabinet decision from 1999, which sanctioned the return of part of NG 187 to its rightful owners, and noted the large turnout of descendants from these landowning units as a source of pride.
The Prime Minister acknowledged those who had previously worked towards this dream, saying, “I wish to acknowledge and pay tribute to those who have gone before us and who initiated and were part of this journey of a dream come true. May their souls rest in peace.” The return of the land was based on the understanding that it was no longer required for its original public use, as affirmed by the Cabinet decision. He also mentioned that compensation had been duly paid to landowners concerning the expansion of the Tavakubu Cemetery, which covers 25 acres.
Additionally, Rabuka revealed that lands previously leased under the Fiji Sugar Corporation and the Fiji Pine Commission would now be administered by the iTaukei Land Trust Board. With the recent approval of the survey plan and relevant Cabinet decisions, the return of this land has been formalized after 25 years since the initial Cabinet approval in 1999 and 102 years since the Colonial Government’s acquisition of NG 187.
This moment represents not just a return of land, but a re-establishment of cultural and historical ties, emphasizing the importance of community and legacy. It marks a hopeful chapter for the Vitogo Village community and reflects the enduring spirit of the people who have long sought the restoration of their ancestral lands.