The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has embarked on an extensive assessment and valuation of all iTaukei land it manages. This decision was made during a recent board meeting, with the aim of establishing a thorough valuation record for the lands under TLTB’s administration.
TLTB CEO Solomone Nata highlighted that the initiative aims to boost accountability, transparency, and efficient management of land assets. The process involves gathering data from various landowning units, which include yavusa (tribes), mataqali (clans), and tokatoka (sub-clans). Additionally, it will clarify the tenure status of land parcels, determining whether they are leased, unleased, reserved, or non-reserved. Currently, TLTB oversees 12,762 land titles that encompass 116,197.40 hectares, with 56,700.478 hectares identified as reserved and 43,312.224 hectares as leased.
The valuation process will also involve compiling verified land parcel data across different communal divisions and securing independent property valuations. A key component of this assessment will be the inclusion of intangible asset valuations related to Native land titles. To maintain consistency in evaluation methodologies, comprehensive guidelines are set to be developed.
This initiative aligns with TLTB’s ongoing efforts to empower landowners and address historical land ownership challenges. Previous announcements revealed that 91 percent of Schedule A and B lands have been successfully returned to their rightful owners. With these progressive initiatives underway, TLTB is demonstrating a commitment to fostering economic opportunities and enhancing community empowerment within the iTaukei population.
By emphasizing sustainable land management practices and improving economic prospects, TLTB’s latest initiatives offer a positive outlook for the future of the iTaukei community, reinforcing the value of cultural heritage and responsible resource management.