A significant development is underway regarding an expired land lease at Labasa Airport, sparking dialogue between the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (TLTB) and local landowners. Solomoni Nata, the CEO of TLTB, highlighted that the lease in question relates to the airport’s entry point and is currently being processed for a new development lease to the Nabukarabe clan of Nakama Village.
Nata expressed a commitment to fostering collaboration with landowners, remarking, “We ensure that landowners are partners in the extension on terms of business and not mere recipients of premium and lease.” This approach aims to empower landowners as key stakeholders in the leasing process, shifting the dynamic away from viewing them as passive participants.
Kalesi Volatabu, the committee secretary of the Nabukarabe clan, shared positive updates regarding the negotiation of the lease renewal. “The offer was sent to us last year,” she commented, revealing that discussions are now at an advanced stage with plans to finalize the lease agreements soon. Volatabu emphasized the importance of including landowners in developmental conversations, reflecting a growing recognition of their role.
Fiji Airports, which oversees the operations of Labasa Airport, has reiterated its dedication to addressing the concerns of landowners in a timely and respectful manner. Their commitment to an open dialogue underscores the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure that everyone’s perspectives are acknowledged. “We are committed to open dialogue and to working collaboratively with landowners to achieve outcomes that are well understood and mutually acceptable,” the company stated.
The Nabukarabe clan manages approximately 3,890 acres in the Labasa area, with 1,100 acres currently under lease with the TLTB. In addition to these developments, the airport is set for runway strengthening work scheduled from February 16 to March 27, which will lead to its temporary closure. This infrastructure enhancement marks a major step forward in boosting the regional airport capabilities and reflects a collaborative approach between authorities and landowners in fostering local development.