The Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Momi Bay Resorts Limited and the Vanua o Nalolo concerning the management of its qoliqoli, a significant coastal resource area. This partnership includes a foreshore lease agreement valued at $1.2 million, which will be distributed among the six yavusa of the Vanua o Nalolo over the next three years.
The signing ceremony took place at the Fiji Marriott Bay Resort in Momi Bay, gathering traditional leaders and the Tui Nalolo, Ratu Kini Vosailagi. Ratu Kini emphasized the necessity of protecting future generations and highlighted the importance of thoroughly assessing the long-term effects of resource agreements on local communities.
Sitiveni Nawaqa, president of the Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance (VITA) and lead consultant for the Vanua o Nalolo, noted that it took over two decades to finalize this agreement. He expressed gratitude to FNPF for their collaboration after many years of effort to secure a deal, initially pursued with Matapo Limited. Nawaqa also recalled his father’s longstanding advocacy for compensation regarding the usage of the qoliqoli, celebrating this agreement as the culmination of their persistent efforts.
FNPF’s chief executive officer, Viliame Vodonaivalu, mentioned that this agreement is significant as it represents FNPF’s first partnership regarding a qoliqoli, particularly as the Fiji Marriott Momi Bay was constructed on a foreshore. Vodonaivalu expressed optimism that the financial resources from this agreement will be used wisely for the community’s benefit.
The Momi Bay Resort, a five-star facility boasting 250 rooms, is fully owned by FNPF and has been in operation since April 2017. This agreement stands as a remarkable achievement in resource management and underscores the role of community involvement in tourism development, fostering a sustainable partnership between indigenous landowners and business initiatives. The hope is that this collaboration will enhance not only the local economy but also ensure the responsible stewarding of natural resources for generations to come.