Over 3,100 acres of ancestral land in Vitogo, Lautoka, have officially been returned to the original iTaukei landowning units, marking a significant milestone in a protracted journey toward recognizing the rights and history of the iTaukei community. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officiated the handover of Native Grant 187, calling it an important step in restoring identity, history, and justice to the indigenous population.
For the iTaukei, land holds deep significance, a sentiment echoed by Mr. Rabuka during the ceremony. He acknowledged the long wait many individuals have endured for this moment, noting that some have spent decades in anticipation, with many of those who initiated the reclamation process no longer alive to witness the return. “We honour them; their patience, belief, and perseverance have led us to this moment,” he stated.
The land, totaling 3,177 acres, was originally acquired by the colonial government in 1924 for the Lautoka Water Supply Catchment. As the catchment is now considered obsolete, it has been returned to the mataqali of Tunuloa, Matarisiga, Vidilo, Nadakuvatu, and Noi Batiri. Josefa Vuniamatana, the Director of Lands, confirmed that water is now sourced from the Vaturu catchment, fulfilling the constitutional obligation to return the land. However, small sections containing active pipelines were excluded from the handover.
Interestingly, Mr. Rabuka had approved the reversion of this land back in 1999 during his first term as Prime Minister, but the legal gazetting process was only finalized on December 23, 2025. He reiterated the Coalition Government’s commitment to upholding the Constitution, emphasizing that lands taken for public use should be returned when they are no longer necessary.
“This handover is about restoring what is right. It is about honouring lawful commitments made many years ago and rebuilding trust between the State and the traditional landowners of Vitogo,” Mr. Rabuka concluded. This event not only aims to rectify historical wrongs but also represents a hopeful move toward reconciliation and the acknowledgment of indigenous rights in the region.