Munia Island is ours again.
These were the triumphant words echoed by the people of Munia as they celebrated the successful fundraising to reclaim their ancestral island on Vanua Balavu, following a remarkable fundraising effort that brought in $63,618.80.
The community gathered in Suva yesterday for a vibrant and emotional Munia Day celebration, which also served as the final major fundraising drive in a mission that has spanned decades.
The atmosphere was filled with pride and relief as families, elders, and supporters came together to mark the moment they had been working towards for so long.
Speaking to fijivillage News, Chairman of the Munia Committee, Vesikula Cakacaka, confirmed the total amount collected and says the community had exceeded its target.
Cakacaka says they needed $60,000 to complete their payment to the government, having already secured around $40,000 before the event.
Cakacaka says the committee intends to act swiftly by going to the government office first thing tomorrow, to pay and reclaim their island.
He says not only did the Munia people in Fiji give, but many travelled from America, Australia and New Zealand to join the gathering.
Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Lands Filimoni Vosarogo has commended the community's efforts, and says that the return of the land titles to rightful owners has been an emotional experience throughout the country.
