The Nabukarabe clan from Nakama Village in Labasa is demanding $6 million from the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) for the usage of the Nasarava water catchment, which they claim has provided no compensation for decades. This significant water source, covering 30 acres, supplies Labasa Town and its surrounding areas, impacting approximately 20,000 households.
Members of the clan have estimated that WAF could be generating up to $12 million annually from household water charges alone. Despite this substantial revenue, landowners have not received any formal compensation due to the absence of a legal lease agreement since 1951. Kalesi Volatabu, the clan’s committee secretary, emphasized that requesting $6 million is modest compared to the profits WAF has amassed over the years.
In response to the clan’s demand, the Water Authority initially proposed a compensation package of $550,000 as a premium, along with $200,000 in back payments and an annual rental of $20,000. However, the clan contends that this offer does not accurately reflect the true value of their resource. Volatabu stated that they have conducted their own valuation and are seeking time for an independent audit and legal advice, stressing that cutting off the water supply would be a last resort.
A 14-day deadline has been set for relevant authorities, including the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) and the Ministry of Lands, to establish necessary arrangements. During this period, the clan is asking for an independent audit of historical water extraction revenues, along with the creation of a fair lease and rental schedule. They also request a benefit-sharing agreement and formal documentation outlining a timeline for payment and lease finalization.
All 394 landholders within the clan have come together, agreeing unanimously on their demands after several discussions. If their compensation request is met, they plan to allocate the funds towards crucial community initiatives such as flood mitigation, improved road access, street lighting, and employment opportunities in agriculture and eco-tourism, through their business arm, Nabukarabe Holdings.
Tevita Lagani, a valuer from the Ministry of Lands, noted that asset valuations rely on market value but indicated that the clan’s independent valuation could indeed justify the $6 million figure. Jope Volau, a valuer for WAF, highlighted the need for further discussions, while Isoa Kasainaseva, the TLTB North manager, applauded the clan’s engagement, expressing hope for continued negotiations after the 14-day period. This situation reflects the importance of fair compensation for land use and resource extraction, underlining the need for dialogue and equitable agreements beneficial to both the community and the authorities involved.