MATA calls on Govt for answers on damages caused by XINFA company

The Mareqeti Au Taqomaki Au (MATA) conservation stewards of Wainunu District in Bua are calling on the government for answers following environmental damages linked to operations by the XINFA company.

The Mareqeti Au Taqomaki Au (MATA) conservation was established in January 2024 with the support of the Social Empowerment and Education Programme (SEEP).

It is a grassroots conservation group committed to protecting Wainunu’s natural environment, traditional land rights, and the long-term sustainability of its people.

MATA Chair Lisala Ranamosa says despite three formal invitations for dialogue this year, the Department of Forestry Labasa has failed to attend any Bose Vanua convened by the district, citing scheduling conflicts.

He says they were invited to their house on three occasions, but this time, they are taking the game to them.

Ranamosa says this step is not taken lightly, but it has become necessary to force a dialogue on issues that can no longer be ignored.

MATA had compiled extensive evidence of harm, including the damage to vital root crops, threatening food security and livelihoods, land encroachment with eucalyptus plantations crossing mataqali boundaries without consent, undermining traditional land rights, and marine damage, which has severely impacted marine ecosystems in Saolo, particularly seaweed species.

The MATA team stresses that yesterday’s meeting is about constructive inquiry, not confrontation.

The Association seeks clarity on XINFA’s compliance status, the effectiveness of monitoring protocols, and opportunities for stronger, solution-driven collaboration with the Department of Forestry.

Ranamosa says they are stepping up to ask the hard questions and to work closely with the Department of Forestry and other stakeholders.

He adds their goal is not to lecture, but to collaborate on tangible solutions.

He says they are acting on behalf of Wainunu today, but it is their children and grandchildren who will bear the cost if they fail to protect their land and water.

Ranamosa says this is about accountability, and if the government agencies and companies continue to ignore community voices, then they are choosing short-term profit over the long-term survival of their people.

He says they will not stand by while their food, sea, and land are destroyed.

He adds that Wainunu is ready to speak up, and they will keep speaking up until real change happens.

MATA expresses its hope that this direct approach will mark a turning point, one that strengthens accountability, ensures environmental compliance, and safeguards the long-term ecological health of the Wainunu District.