The Namosi Landowners Committee Lomani Au, Maroroi Au (LAMA) is calling for greater transparency as the Government reviews Fiji’s Mining Act, saying customary landowners must have a stronger voice in shaping legislation that affects their ancestral lands.

In a statement issued today, LAMA welcomed the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources’ ongoing review of the Mining Act 1965 and Quarries Act 1939, describing it as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to modernise Fiji’s mining laws while better protecting the rights and interests of customary landowners.

However, Lomani Au, Maroroi Au (LAMA) Chairman Sipiriano Nariva highlighted that sustainable while nationwide public consultations were carried out, there has been little information provided on how the views of customary landowners have been reflected in the proposed reforms.

LAMA is now urging the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources and the Fiji Law Reform Commission to publicly release a summary of consultation findings, recommendations received from stakeholders, which recommendations have been accepted or rejected, and the timeline for the release of the draft Mining Bill.

LAMA Chairman, emphasized that the revised legislation should strengthen the rights of customary landowners by recognising Free, Prior and Informed Consent before mining activities, ensuring meaningful participation throughout mining projects, improving environmental protections, providing fair benefit-sharing arrangements, safeguarding cultural heritage sites, increasing transparency in mining licences, and establishing independent monitoring and grievance mechanisms.

He also stated that sustainable development can only be achieved when customary landowners are recognised as genuine partners in decisions affecting their land.

Nariva added that the review of the Mining Act presents an opportunity to create modern legislation that supports responsible investment while protecting Fiji’s environment, customary landowners and future generations.

By: Joeli Ragoneliwa