In Fiji, a series of leaked emails has brought to light that forestry officials have frequently overlooked the appeals of the Wainunu villagers, who have repeatedly requested meetings to discuss a controversial eucalyptus project operated by Xinfa Group of Companies. Documents reviewed reveal that since July last year, the Ministry of Forestry has largely ignored or imposed conditions on attempts by landowners and community groups to engage in discussions about the project.
Epeli Matawalu, representing the Wainunu district, had invited Uraia Racule, acting divisional forestry officer for the northern area, to a meeting on July 24, 2024, at Cogea Village. The invitation, communicated through Metuisela Gauna from the Social Empowerment and Education Programme (SEEP), underscored the importance of ministry involvement in village discussions concerning the eucalyptus initiative.
Despite acknowledgment of prior invitations, Mr. Racule failed to attend these crucial meetings. On November 24, another effort was made by SEEP’s Cema Rokodredre, who stressed the villagers’ need for informed communication regarding land developments. However, ministry responses imposed conditions for attendance requiring formal requests sanctioned by the provincial council. Even when these conditions were met by SEEP on December 8, further requirements involved endorsements from the Bua Provincial Office.
The villagers’ dissatisfaction intensified when a scheduled meeting in Daria was suddenly canceled by the ministry. Laisala Ranamosa, Wainunu Conservation steward leader, voiced the community’s frustration and neglect as their quest for information stretched over a year. The ongoing attempts to involve ministry officials highlight a significant communication gap and engagement issues between the local community and forestry authorities.
In response, Mr. Racule committed to attending future meetings in Wainunu to adequately address landowner concerns prior to further development activities. This scenario is not isolated, as it mirrors other disputes in Fiji, such as those regarding hydroelectric dam projects where communities have raised concerns about inadequate consultation and environmental repercussions. These situations emphasize the critical need for transparent dialogue and cooperation between authorities and indigenous landowners to achieve outcomes that respect both development goals and community rights.