It was an emotional day today for the families of five landowning units in Vitogo, Lautoka, after receiving their land titles from Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka.
For the people of Vitogo, this moment is far more than the exchange of documents. It is the return of the vanua to its people — land that carries identity, history, and responsibility passed down through generations. After a journey that has spanned decades, the land classified as Native Grant 187 has now been formally reverted to its rightful owners, restoring what many families have waited a lifetime to see.
Prime Minister Rabuka described the handover as an act of justice and trust, honouring commitments made many years ago and reaffirming the deep cultural significance of land to the iTaukei people. He acknowledged the traditional custodians, chiefs, elders and members of the five landowning mataqali — Tunuloa, Matarisiga, Vidilo, Nadakuvatu and Noi Batiri — whose patience and perseverance made this historic day possible.
Native Grant 187, covering approximately 3,177 acres, was originally acquired in 1924 by the then-colonial government for the Lautoka Water Supply Catchment. Over time, parts of the land were no longer needed for public use, leading to Cabinet approval in 1999 for its reversion, while retaining essential public areas such as the Tavakubu Cemetery, water infrastructure and forestry land.
The Prime Minister noted that some elders who began the process are no longer alive to witness its completion, and their memory was honoured during the ceremony.
He said today’s handover reflects the Government’s commitment to fairness, respect and partnership with Indigenous landowners.
The Head of Government encouraged landowning units to use their returned land productively, creating opportunities in agriculture, tourism, business and other ventures. With support from government agencies, the land is expected to generate jobs, strengthen local communities and secure a more prosperous future for generations to come.
