Outdated mining laws blamed for growing disputes in Namosi

Growing disputes among families and clans in the Namosi Highlands have been linked to Fiji’s outdated mining laws, with community leaders warning that the legislation is no longer suitable for today’s challenges.

Sipiriano Nariva of the Lomani Au, Maroroi Au (LAMA) group, an organisation that helps protect natural resources in the Namosi Highlands, raised the concern during a public consultation yesterday in Namosi Village as part of the review of Fiji’s Mining Act 1965 and Quarries Act 1939.

Mr Nariva told officials that tensions within villages have increased over the years, particularly after investors entered the area to explore mining opportunities.

“The current laws need to be reviewed because we are now seeing disputes among families, clans and even within villages,” he said.

He explained that many of the conflicts were linked to how land and resources were managed under the existing mining laws, which were created more than six decades ago.

According to Mr Nariva, when outside investors arrive to explore mining opportunities, disagreements often emerge over land ownership, benefits and decision-making.

“When investors come in and start business, issues begin to surface. People start to question who owns the land and who should benefit from the resources,” he said.

Mr Nariva said these disputes were affecting community unity in the highlands and warned that the outdated laws were no longer able to properly address the concerns of local landowners.

He said reviewing the legislation was important to ensure it reflected today’s realities and protected the rights of landowners while also guiding responsible development.

“The laws were created many years ago. Our communities have changed, and the challenges we face today are very different,” he said.

Mr Nariva added that stronger and clearer policies were needed to prevent conflicts and ensure development did not divide communities.

Meanwhile, villagers in Namosi hope the Government will closely examine the issue and ensure the outdated laws are reviewed.