Poor record-keeping and unregulated burial practices on customary land are presenting significant health and sanitation issues for iTaukei villages and communities. The iTaukei Affairs Board recently conveyed these concerns during an address to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Justice, Law, and Human Rights, noting that many villages lack proper registers and clearly defined boundaries for burial grounds, which could pose risks to public health.
Deputy CEO Josefa Toganivalu pointed out that most disputes stem from burials being conducted within village compounds—a practice discouraged due to hygiene and safety concerns. He emphasized that urban villages are experiencing land shortages, highlighting the urgent need for better land management practices.
“Once this submission came up, we began to delve deeper into the issue,” Toganivalu remarked, reaffirming the board’s commitment to addressing these challenges. He shared plans to formally review and register all cemeteries to ensure that boundaries and burial sites are accurately documented, which is a vital step in safeguarding community health.
Committee Member Jone Usamate underscored the necessity for stronger collaboration between Tikina Councils and municipal authorities to protect public health and maintain the integrity of village lands. He raised concerns about why existing provisions in iTaukei legislation have not yet been implemented by the ministry or minister.
The iTaukei Affairs Board believes that registering all cemeteries and enhancing coordination in land use will be critical for preserving village boundaries and ensuring public health for future generations. This proactive stance aligns with broader governmental efforts aimed at improving quality of life for indigenous populations, particularly in urban areas where land management challenges are increasingly complex.
As this initiative progresses, there is optimism that enhanced governance and community involvement in managing land and burial sites will contribute to a safer and healthier environment for iTaukei communities, while also preserving their rich cultural heritage.