The province of Tailevu is poised for significant government support following the announcement of new land allocations and development projects by the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo. During his address at the Bose ni Yasana ko Tailevu, Vosarogo revealed that six acres of state land in Vunivivi will be designated for the new Tailevu Provincial Office. Additionally, another six acres have been returned to the Mataqali Nalagobokola as part of a land reclamation initiative.
Vosarogo emphasized that the government, in collaboration with various ministries such as Agriculture, Fisheries, Forestry, Women and Children, and Cooperatives, aims to enhance rural livelihoods and expand services within Tailevu. He recognized the province’s historical significance as a center of leadership and resilience, urging the community to unite for the benefit of future generations.
In an effort to address the issue of vacant chiefly titles, Tailevu Provincial Council chairman Semi Matalau announced that unfilled chiefly positions would be addressed through cooperation among the involved parties and the iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission. He reported that of the 674 turaga ni mataqali (clan leaders) in the province, 385 positions are filled, leaving 289 vacant. Matalau expressed optimism about resolving these leadership gaps, stating the importance of appointing new chiefs.
Looking ahead, the Tailevu Provincial Council plans to host a festival named Adi Tailevu next year, aimed at alleviating the financial burden of the annual levy (vanua soli) imposed on the community. Matalau noted that this event will also serve as an opportunity for the people of Tailevu to reconnect with family and friends while contributing to the council’s operational funds through their contributions.
In addressing social issues facing the nation, Vosarogo called for unity among the traditional leadership (vanua), the church (lotu), and the government (matanitu) to tackle growing concerns such as the rise in HIV/AIDS and violence against women and children. He highlighted the alarming increase in drug use, stressing the need for collective community responsibility in addressing these challenges.
The ongoing discussions among community leaders reflect a commitment to fostering a supportive environment aimed at improving public health and safety. By promoting collaboration across various sectors, there is a shared hope for a brighter and more resilient future in Tailevu and throughout Fiji.