Yavusa Munia regains ancestral land after decades of wait
Speaking in the iTaukei language, Mr Rabuka said the return of the island represented more than the restoration of ownership.
Thursday 30 July 2026 | 07:00
After 36 years, the Yavusa Munia have finally regained ownership of their ancestral land, after it was secured under the Government’s Freehold Land Buyback Scheme.
Fiji Government
After decades of waiting, the people of Yavusa Munia have regained ownership of their 1,110-hectare ancestral land, marking what community members described as the fulfilment of a dream carried by generations.
The original freehold title was handed over yesterday on Avea Island, Vanuabalavu, under the Government's Freehold Land Buyback Scheme, in a ceremony officiated by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
The occasion was marked by traditional drumming and celebrations as members of the yavusa gathered to witness the return of land they regard as central to their identity and heritage.
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Speaking in the iTaukei language, Mr Rabuka said the return of the island represented more than the restoration of ownership.
He said it symbolised the return of identity, hope and responsibility.
The Prime Minister congratulated the Yavusa Munia for fulfilling its obligations under the Government's Freehold Land Buyback Scheme and urged landowners to use the land as a source of sustainable and productive investment for future generations.
He also encouraged them to protect the island's environment, saying economic development and environmental stewardship must go hand in hand.
For the community, the ceremony marked the end of a long and emotional journey.
Speaking on behalf of the villagers, 70-year-old Etuate Uni said the day would become part of the yavusa's history.
He recalled the hardship their forefathers endured after being forced to leave Munia, describing it as one of the most painful chapters in their history.
"What we are witnessing today is the reality of what our forefathers dreamed and worked so hard for. This is proof that their struggles were not in vain."
Mr Uni thanked everyone who contributed to the return of the land, including the Government and the late former Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, whose vision to establish the land buyback initiative, he said, gave the people renewed hope for the future.
In a separate statement, Mr Rabuka said the visit to Avea Island followed a stop in Mavana, where he paid tribute to the late Mr Qarase by laying a wreath at his gravesite before visiting his family.
Reflecting on the handover, Mr Rabuka said witnessing the return of the title was "a profound honour and a blessing."
He said the occasion was a reminder of the importance of preserving Fiji's heritage, recognising the rights of its people and ensuring justice for future generations.
