Yavusa Munia regains ancestral land after 36 years

After a 36-year wait, the Yavusa Munia community has celebrated the official return of its ancestral land on Avea Island in Vanuabalavu, Lau. The 1,110-hectare freehold property was handed back to the community yesterday under the Government’s Freehold Land Buyback Scheme.

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The return of the island as more than the restoration of ownership, saying it represents the return of identity, hope and responsibility.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka attended the handover ceremony, marking a significant moment for the Yavusa Munia. He described the return of the island as more than just a restoration of ownership. Rabuka stated it represents the reclamation of identity, the rekindling of hope, and the acceptance of responsibility for future generations.

The Prime Minister congratulated the Yavusa Munia for successfully navigating the buyback scheme's requirements. He urged the landowners to utilize the land for sustainable and productive investments that will benefit their descendants. Rabuka also highlighted the critical importance of balancing economic development with environmental conservation on the island.

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The occasion would be remembered as a historic day after generations of struggle.

Speaking on behalf of the villagers, 70-year-old Etuate Uni called the day historic, acknowledging the generations of struggle endured by their forefathers. Uni recounted the great hardship and painful chapter of their history when they were forced to leave Munia. He expressed that the land's return fulfills their ancestors' dreams and validates their sacrifices. Uni also recognized the government's role, particularly the vision of the late former Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, whose Freehold Land Buyback Scheme provided renewed hope for reclaiming ancestral lands.

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He says the return of the land fulfils the dream of their ancestors and proves their sacrifices were not in vain.