Fiji: Further protests likely in rural development areas

On 28 March, approximately 100 Navunikabi villagers delivered letters to the Prime Minister, Opposition, and Australian Embassy voicing opposition to the construction of a hydro electric dam. The villagers have cited environmental damage and a lack of consultation as their main concerns. Flooding often affects the small riverside village located in the southern highlands of Viti Levu. Relocation had previously been raised but the project, managed by majority government owned Energy Fiji Limited, has stated no relocation is required. A number of small protests have occurred since October 2024 during surveying and other work. The Minister for Rural and Maritime Development has previously stated they intend to move ahead with the project after consultation - the project is funded by the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific.

Assessment: Further protests are likely until the Government satisfies local concerns. The village relies on the natural environment for its livelihood, including an eco tourism business. A number of other development projects have been delayed in rural areas across Fiji due to opposition from local owners with customary rights, including the Mt Kasi Gold Mine. Proposed new developments in rural areas are likely to face similar engagement challenges from local landowner associations.

Sources: Shania Shayal Prasad, “Villagers Say No to Hydro Dam Project,” FBC News, March 28, 2025; Iliana Biutu, “Navunikabi Villagers Reject Relocation Despite EFL’s Reassurances on Hydro Project,” Fijivillage, October 14, 2024; “‘Left Behind to Suffer’: Fiji Landowners Oppose Hydro Dam Development,” RNZ, October 3, 2024; Frederica Elbourne, “Landowners Reject Govt Efforts,” Fiji Sun, January 23, 2025.