The Government of Fiji has formally returned 1,184 acres of Mua Freehold land to Yavusa Wainikeli of Naselesele Village, Taveuni, marking one of the most significant milestones in the restoration of alienated iTaukei land to its rightful owners.
The land, comprising four Mua Freehold properties once owned by Burns Philip, was purchased by the Government in 1992 under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka, following Yavusa Wainikeli’s request to reclaim their ancestral land.
At the official handover ceremony, Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka described the occasion as the fulfilment of a long-held aspiration of the chiefs to recover land taken during the colonial era. He reaffirmed that the return of the land reflects the Government’s commitment to safeguarding iTaukei rights and ensuring future generations inherit the land that rightfully belongs to them.
This achievement was made possible through the Government’s Land Buyback Programme, launched in 1989 by Prime Minister Rabuka, which continues to play a pivotal role in restoring dignity, heritage, and opportunity to iTaukei landowners.
“This is more than a land transfer – it is the restoration of identity, heritage, and dignity. It demonstrates leadership that respects iTaukei rights, honours the vision of our ancestors, and safeguards the vanua for generations to come,” Prime Minister Rabuka stated.
The return of the Mua Freehold to Yavusa Wainikeli stands as a lasting reminder that protecting iTaukei land remains a national priority under the leadership of Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Ligamamada Rabuka.