Attorney-General and Minister for Tourism, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum (right), chatting with Sabeto landowners yesterday. Photo: Waisea Nasokia
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The business arm of the strategically placed mataqali Nabilia of Natalau Village in Sabeto, Nadi, are venturing into some serious projects.
The proposed projects involve a professional race course, and apartment blocks.
Aviva-Nawai, which is the business arm of the mataqali, says it already has the land, required permissions ready and is now in talks with potential investors.
Aviva has already gone into horse racing.
Attorney-General and Tourism Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum, who was in Sabeto yesterday as the chief guest at the horse racing, said there was a need to ensure sustainability and quality.
“I would urge you all to work with us, where we can provide you with that support and knowledge base, so you have continuity and sustainability in this business, which is very, very critical to have,” he said.
“The land resources that iTaukei people have must be seen as an asset, from which you people can benefit directly. Land not being used is of no financial benefit.
“What we have today, as far as the legal framework is concerned, Fijian
“Constitution without any doubt guarantees ownership of the iTaukei land.Any royalties derived from the ground, you get a fair share of that.
“The answer now is to see what we do so that you benefit out of it.
“We want to work together with you and provide you with assistance benefit from it.”
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