Minister for Lands, Filimoni Vosarogo has clarified that the land that was returned to the Mataqali Nailagobokola of Nausori is State freehold land.
Vosarogo clarifies that the land was acquired as part of acquisition to develop the sugar industry when it began in Nausori.
His clarification follows questions raised by some people on whether the government was returning freehold land to iTaukei landowners.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka officially returned the piece of land to the Mataqali, ending more than 150 years of government use of the property.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Prime Minister Rabuka thanked the villagers for their patience, resilience, and understanding throughout the long process.
He acknowledged the important role the land had played in supporting the livelihoods of thousands of Fijians over the years.
An emotional Rabuka also expressed gratitude to all stakeholders involved, commending their maturity and cooperation in ensuring the land was returned to its rightful owners after such a lengthy period.
He says that for the iTaukei people and indigenous communities of Fiji, land represents far more than monetary value.
According to Rabuka, land ownership and custodianship are deeply connected to identity, culture, heritage, and future generations.
In a moving display of gratitude, villagers sang hymns of praise following the handover, describing the occasion as a historic moment and expressing hope that such a loss of land would never happen again, ensuring its protection for future generations.
Vosarogo described the day as a significant milestone, saying it marked the return of land that the villagers' forefathers had sacrificed more than 150 years ago to support national development.
