The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has completed a comprehensive field survey of the Sawakasa Mahogany Plantation Lease, paving the way for more efficient harvesting and improved returns for landowners.

The survey covered all 16 lots within the 4,128-hectare plantation lease and marks the completion of four years of fieldwork carried out between the 2022/2023 and 2025/2026 financial years.

Survey teams mapped and marked every boundary despite challenging terrain, including remote bush areas and river crossings.

According to the ministry, the completed survey will provide plantation managers with accurate boundary information, helping to reduce disputes, minimise delays and improve harvesting operations.

The ministry said the updated land records are also expected to strengthen lease administration, enhance long-term returns for landowners and increase investor confidence by providing greater certainty over land tenure.

It added that the work supports the sustainable growth of Fiji’s mahogany industry.

The project will now move into its final stages, including the preparation of survey plans, technical assessments and official registration.

Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo said the achievement supports the Government’s new mahogany legislation and wider reforms aimed at improving transparency, governance and ensuring greater benefits for both landowners and the country.

He also praised the ministry’s survey teams for completing the demanding work in difficult conditions, noting that crews spent weeks navigating rugged landscapes, crossing rivers and working in remote locations to accurately establish the plantation boundaries.

The ministry thanked local communities and stakeholders for their support throughout the project and reaffirmed its commitment to delivering land services that promote sustainable development and economic growth.