A historic and emotional milestone has been achieved for the people of Mataqali Nailagobokola of Nausori, who have officially regained 17.7 acres of ancestral land sold during the colonial era more than 150 years ago. The land, formerly held as freehold property and known as the Nausori Golf Course, was handed back to its traditional owners at the Nausori Village Hall.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka described the occasion as the fulfilment of a promise first made in 1999, calling it a significant step in restoring justice to traditional landowners. He thanked the Mataqali Nailagobokola for their contribution to Fiji’s development over many generations, acknowledging their role in sharing land that supported national economic growth.
“I take this time, on behalf of the people of Fiji, to thank you for sharing your land with us and contributing to economic growth that has benefited the nation,” the Prime Minister said. He also encouraged the landowners to make productive use of the land for the benefit of future generations.
According to the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources, the first transaction involving the property was recorded in 1868, before ownership passed to the Colonial Sugar Refining Company in 1889. The Government later acquired the land in 1961 and developed it into the Nausori Golf Course.
The People’s Alliance Government reaffirmed its commitment to restoring justice, respecting iTaukei land ownership, and ensuring that traditional landowners are recognised and empowered to use their land productively.