The iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission is making significant strides in refining the registration process of Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB), a crucial step in fortifying the bond between the Fijian diaspora and their ancestral land rights. Acting Chairman Kitione Vesikula shared updates with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Social Affairs, revealing that registration is currently free, although there is a nominal fee for obtaining certificates or copies.
Efforts to engage Fijians residing in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand have been fruitful, as these outreach initiatives aim to reconnect third-generation diaspora members with their roots. The Commission has expanded its footprint by increasing trial offices from six to 14 across the provinces, facilitating access to digitized VKB records in person.
Despite these positive developments, Vesikula recognized that many iTaukei living overseas still face hurdles in the VKB registration process, often needing to travel to Fiji or coordinate in-person visits. This can hinder diaspora members’ understanding of their land ownership and legal rights. To address these obstacles, the Commission intends to launch secure online platforms for remote registration, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.
Viam Pillay, a member of the Social Affairs Committee, stressed the urgent need to safeguard historical records, pinpointing the importance of preserving manual files that have already been digitized since 2014. Vesikula emphasized that further investments and technical assistance are necessary to secure the system and mitigate risks associated with data loss.
This modernization initiative aims to enhance transparency, accessibility, and legal recognition of land ownership, strengthening the link between the diaspora and their heritage. The ability to connect with ancestral lands is vital for fostering domestic investment and encouraging active involvement in national development. Vesikula affirmed that while digital access is available in all provincial offices, prioritizing online registration is essential.
The Commission’s dedication to elevating the VKB system, paired with proactive outreach programs that educate the diaspora about their rights and responsibilities, illustrates a robust commitment to preserving cultural ties. This undertaking plays a critical role in associating registration with land security, national identity, and empowerment for all Fijians.
The ongoing modernization efforts and outreach initiatives represent a promising avenue for the iTaukei community, reinforcing their identity and connection to heritage while enhancing governance structures within Fiji. These endeavors showcase the community’s resilience and determination to maintain cultural preservation in a rapidly changing global landscape.