Calls to review Mining Act to include landowner benefits

The Mining Act should be reviewed to include landowners as beneficiaries

This is the statement by the people of the mataqali Nabukebuke in Namosi, as they continue discussions with the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources regarding the renewal of the Namosi Joint Venture SPL1420.

A representative from the mataqali says the current Mining Act only benefits the company and the government.

He says landowners have no authority at all over their land.

Petero Saunivalu a representative from the mataqali Nabukebuke says Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is also aware of the concerns raised by the villagers of Namosi during his last campaign before the 2022 general election, where villagers expressed their opposition to the renewal of the license.

Director of Mineral Resources Department, Apete Soro says the Mining Act 1965 offers only two forms of benefit to landowners under the exploration license: first, if the landowners are employed by the company; and second, if the company compensates for the effects of exploration on the land.

Soro says the license grants the company the right to access the area for exploration, and the company then informs the landowners about the intended exploration and seeks their support.

The Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo confirmed that a review of the Mining Act is currently underway and aims to ensure transparency and public awareness.