Ancestral land returned to Nausori community after more than a century

An emotional and historic milestone has been reached as the Mataqali Nailagobokola of Nausori officially regained ownership of 478 acres of ancestral land. This land, which was sold during the colonial era more than 170 years ago, was formerly held as freehold property and was known as the Nausori Golf Course.

The official handover ceremony marked the return of the land to its traditional owners, signifying a significant moment of reconciliation and recognition of historical injustices. The Mataqali Nailagobokola has long sought the return of their ancestral territory, which holds deep cultural and historical significance.

This restitution represents a powerful symbol of cultural heritage preservation and the correction of past wrongs. The event underscores the ongoing efforts in Fiji and other regions to address land claims stemming from colonial practices and to empower indigenous communities by returning ancestral lands.