Black Sand Mining Disrupts Livelihoods
Ms Mataka said the men often rent boats, straining their finances further. The lack of income and food has also led to rising tensions within families, requiring frequent mediation by village leaders.
Thursday 19 September 2024 | 13:42
From left: Mereseini Naqolo , Alesi Mataka and her granddaughter, Vikaili Waqeriya , Aseri Nariu, Vani Tuvuki at Natutu Village, Ba, on September 6, 2024. Photo: Shaniyah Khan
Villagers from Natutu, Votua, and Nawaqarua in Ba are facing severe hardships as black sand mining, which started in 2016, continues to impact their primary means of livelihood.
Australian company Amex Resources Ltd initiated the dredging for magnetite in the Ba River, significantly affecting the river’s ecosystem.
Head of Soqosoqo Vakamarama Natutu Village, Alesi Mataka, shared the challenges her village faces, particularly for fishermen.
Related stories
“My husband, a fisherman, now spends at least seven days at sea due to the scarcity of fish near our shores,” she said.
Ms Mataka said the men often rent boats, straining their finances further. The lack of income and food has also led to rising tensions within families, requiring frequent mediation by village leaders.
According to Fiji Council of Social Services (FCOSS) advocacy project coordinator, Tevita Evo, the mining has had a direct impact on the fisherfolk who rely on the Ba River for sustenance and income.
“We are trying our best to present evidence-based research on the environmental impacts, but the damage is already extensive and largely ignored by the current government,” Mr Evo said.
Votua Village headman Alusio Waisele (left), with Natutu Village headman Alipate Naqolo. Photo: Shaniyah Khan
Compensation from the mining project has been limited to the Yavusa (tribe) of Votua, which many see as unfair.
FCOSS chairperson Vani Tuvuki noted that only $240 per person was paid in 2021, with another small payment in March 2023.
“We are pushing for broader compensation, including for those directly affected by the environmental damage, not just the landowners,” Mr Tuvuki said.
Votua Village headman Alusio Waisele and Natutu Village headman Alipate Naqolo claimed that their communities were misled by the previous government, which only explained the exploration license, not the mining’s full impact.
They expressed frustration over unmet promises and inadequate consultation. Efforts to halt the project in March 2023 were ignored by the Ministry of Land and Mineral Resources, they added.
The mining has altered the flow of the Ba River, created a sand island and further impacted the surrounding villages.
Despite repeated attempts to address these issues, Amex Resources’ general manager, Alivereti Tuidravuni, declined to comment.
Feedback: shaniyah.khan@fijisun.com.fj
