PM Rabuka urges iTaukei landowners to become developers, not just leaseholders

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has urged iTaukei landowners to move beyond being passive recipients of lease income and instead become land developers, entrepreneurs, employers and investors. 
Mr Rabuka was speaking during the reversion of part of Native Grant 187 to the original landowning units at Vitogo Village in Lautoka. 
“I want you to become land developers, entrepreneurs, employers and investors,” he said.  
He said the handover was about restoring what was right and honouring lawful commitments made many years ago. 
“This is not just the handover of a title. It is the return of the vanua to its people,” he said. 
“It is about rebuilding trust between the State and the traditional landowners of Vitogo.” 
He also acknowledged the long wait by landowners. 
“Some of you have waited decades. Some who started this process are no longer with us today. We honour them - their patience, belief and perseverance brought us to this moment.” 
Mr Rabuka reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting iTaukei land. 
“The Constitution is clear. Land taken for a public purpose must be returned when it is no longer needed,” he said. 
Mr Rabuka said the Government would support landowners to fully utilise their land through commercial ventures and strategic partnerships. 
“When iTaukei land is productively used, it creates jobs, grows wealth and strengthens our national economy,” he said. 
He said the reversion took effect from December 23, 2025, the date of publication of the legal notice in the Government Gazette. 
“All land rent collected on active leases prior to this date remains government revenue,” he said. 
“However, all lease monies due after the gazette date will be collected by the iTaukei Land Trust Board or the Land Use Unit on behalf of the landowners.” 

The land belonged to the mataqali Tunuloa, Matarisiga, Vidilo, Nadakuvatu and Noi Batiri. 
Native Grant 187 was originally acquired in 1924 by the then colonial government for the Lautoka water supply catchment, covering approximately 3177 acres.