The Fijian government is grappling with a pressing issue as urban cemeteries, particularly in Suva, Lautoka, and Labasa, are forecasted to reach full capacity within the next decade and a half. The alarming situation has caught the attention of local officials and the Fiji Corrections Service, who highlight the critical need to address land shortages for burials amidst growing urban development.
Deputy Commissioner Auta Moceisuva shared insights with the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights, revealing that an average of 10 to 12 burials occur each day, rapidly diminishing available cemetery space, particularly in high-demand areas such as Nasinu and Suva. Although the government has set aside $2.5 million for excavation efforts in Nasinu, Moceisuva cautioned that this space is on track to be filled within just 15 years.
The challenge is further exacerbated by landowners’ hesitance to lease land for new burial plots over fears that cemeteries could negatively impact property values in desirable areas. Currently, negotiations are underway with the iTaukei Land Trust Board and the Ministry of Lands to explore potential new burial sites, but landowner responses have been less enthusiastic.
To alleviate some of the pressure on burial space, Moceisuva suggested that promoting cremation could serve as a practical alternative. While cultural and religious beliefs often pose challenges to the broader acceptance of cremation, there are signs that more Fijians might consider this option as burial grounds become increasingly scarce. Historically, Hindu communities have adopted cremation, and a potential cultural shift could emerge in the face of dwindling burial options.
In response to these challenges, the proposed Burial and Cremation Amendment Bill 2025 aims to modernize burial laws that have remained largely unchanged for over a century. This initiative is designed to tackle land scarcity, facilitate cultural shifts, and streamline the management of burial sites. Standing Committee Chair Ratu Rakuita Vakalalabure articulated that the Bill seeks to ensure that all burials are performed in licensed cemeteries, thereby enhancing both oversight and planning for these critical spaces.
The urgency of the situation is evident throughout Fiji, highlighted by instances such as the Enamanu cemetery in Nadi, which has already reached full capacity with plots being reused due to a lack of available land. Previous discussions have underscored the necessity to revisit and renew the Burial and Cremation Act of 1911, prompted by increasing demands from various stakeholders, including the Fiji Corrections Service and community leaders.
In a bid to enhance end-of-life services, the government has also invested in advancements like eco-friendly gas crematoriums in Ba and Labasa. These developments reflect a growing trend towards sustainable practices, which not only ease the logistical burden on grieving families but also address environmental concerns.
Amid these challenges, there is optimism for a collaborative effort between government and community stakeholders. By fostering modern legislative frameworks and embracing a cultural openness to cremation, Fiji is making significant progress towards ensuring that dignified end-of-life options are accessible to all residents while respecting their cultural heritage.