Vitogo reclaims ancestral land after 102 years

A long and emotional chapter closed yesterday as part of land known as Native Grant (NG) 187 was officially reverted to its original landowning units of Vitogo, more than a century after it was acquired for public use.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka officiated at the historic event, describing the reversion as a testament to perseverance and faith.

“Here we are, at the end of the journey, still standing and still believing that with perseverance nothing is impossible,” he said.

Mr Rabuka said Cabinet approved the reversion in 1999 after it was established that the land was no longer required for its original public purpose. He said it was encouraging to see landowners gather in large numbers to witness the fulfilment of a long-held aspiration.

He also paid tribute to those who began the process but did not live to see its completion.

“I wish to acknowledge those who have gone before us and were part of this journey. May their souls rest in peace,” he said.

The Prime Minister said Cabinet had also approved compensation to landowners for the 25-acre extension of the Tavakubu Cemetery.

He added that the administration of leased lands involving the Fiji Sugar Corporation, the Fiji Pine Commission and other active leases would now be transferred to the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB).

Mr Rabuka said the approval of the survey plan, together with Cabinet endorsement and the gazetting of the legal notice, formally confirmed the land reversion.

The milestone comes 25 years after Cabinet approval and 102 years after the then colonial government acquired NG 187.

The Lautoka Water Supply Catchment Area, which forms part of NG 187, is owned by five mataqali: Tunuloa and Matarisiga of Vitogo Village; Vidilo and Noi Batiri of Namoli Village; and Nadakuvatu of Saru Village in Ba.

Mr Rabuka said the process was complex, involving legal requirements, consultations and cooperation among multiple stakeholders.

He expressed confidence that the land would now be used responsibly and preserved for future generations.

“The land has been returned to you. Use it wisely,” he said.