A critical land lease within the boundaries of Labasa Airport has been identified as expired, prompting ongoing discussions between the iTaukei Lands Trust Board (TLTB) and the local landowners. Solomoni Nata, the CEO of TLTB, confirmed that the lease, which pertains to the entry point of the airport, is being processed for a development lease to the Nabukarabe clan of Nakama Village.
Nata emphasized the focus on collaboration with the landowners, stating, “We ensure that landowners are partners in the extension on terms of business and not mere recipients of premium and lease.” This shift aims to recognize the landowners as essential stakeholders in the leasing process, rather than passive participants.
The clan’s committee secretary, Kalesi Volatabu, reported that discussions regarding the lease renewal are progressing well. “The offer was sent to us last year,” she noted, indicating that the clan is now in the final stages of finalizing the lease agreements. Volatabu expressed satisfaction with the current dialogue, highlighting the importance of landowners being included in development discussions.
Fiji Airports has expressed its commitment to addressing concerns raised by landowners promptly and respectfully, ensuring that their voices are heard throughout the project. “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 holds ownership of approximately 3,890 acres in Labasa, with 1,100 acres currently leased under TLTB. In related developments, runway strengthening at Labasa Airport is scheduled to take place from February 16 to March 27, necessitating the temporary closure of the airport. This is part of broader efforts to enhance airport infrastructure, affirming the collaborative spirit between the authorities and landowners in driving regional development.