February Bulletin 2nd Issue

iTaukei Issue 2

Land Trust Board

iTaukei Land, Our Heritage, Our Future

28th February 2018

$200K for 29 landowners
SEED Fund Grant of $350K for 2018

The 29 landowner recipients of the $200,000 with the Prime Miinister and TLTB Chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama after the cheque presentation in Ba this month

THE iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has distributed Mr Bainimarama also called on other stakeholders in the
$200,000 this month to 29 landowners, landowning units public or private sector who wants to join this assistance to
and landowner youth groups from all over Fiji in Ba this landowners to assist.
month.
“We are encouraging iTaukei landowners in starting their
TLTB Chairman and Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama own revenue generating initiatives as an individual or a
presented the cheques to the landowners and congratulated landowning unit. All you have to do is to stand up and start
them for utilising their own land. doing some serious work. My Government will provide that
moral and financial support if you want them,” he said.
“These individuals and landowning units have been
selected for the potential they have in putting forward “As you are aware, my Government is committed to support
innovative ideas that we believe are going to seriously shape small and micro enterprises as an engine for real economic
the Fiji of tomorrow especially in the areas of agriculture, growth in Fiji. We want to help and fund bankable business
tourism, land development, transportation, logging and ideas from thousands of Fijian landowners, giving them
other businesses,” he said. the chance to put up their business plans, hire their fellow
Fijians in support of their dreams and help Fiji’s economy
“These people have been selected by the Board after to grow,” he added.
demonstrating that they not only have great business ideas,
but that they have a business plan to turn those ideas into The money disbursed ranges from $5,000 to $20,000.
profitable businesses.
The grant is a new grant scheme that TLTB hopes to grow
“At this juncture, I also wish to announce that TLTB Board in the future. n
has also approved an additional disbursement of $350,000
to the landowners this year.

Inside........ CORPORATE STATEMENT 2018

• $200k for 29 landowners............................................ 1 CORE ROLES
• Corporate Statement..................................................2
• Board Sub-Committee Meeting starts...........................3 Three major core roles which are specified under law:
• Official Opening of the Ba Sub-Regional Office............. 4
• PM’s Consultation.......................................................6 1. To control, manage and monitor iTaukei lands by way of
leases and licenses;
–– iTaukei land is safe: Chairman
–– Landowners to benefit from $3.72 million 2. To collect and distribute premiums, rents and royalties
–– Most squatters on reserved land: GM derived from the leased land;
–– $33.6m set aside for youths
–– PM happy about TLTB 3. To ensure sufficient land are ‘reserved’ for the use,
• Key Audit Issues from 2017........................................ 14 maintenance and support of its iTaukei owners, including
• TLTB’s ISO Standards?................................................15 the control and management of ‘extinct ‘mataqali lands”.
• Mataqali Navusabalavu meeting.................................. 16
• Filming. in Fiji............................................................17 CORE BUSINESS
• Tourism Department (CSR)......................................... 18
• SW Talanoa............................................................... 20 Sustainable Development and Wealth Creation
• 1st Talanoa Session in Suva....................................... 21
• Labasa Talanoa Session..............................................22 VISION
• Staff to declare their interest.......................................23
• Interview with the Librarian........................................24 Excellence in Land Management Services to Meet the
• Seed Fund Grant for iTaukei Landowners..................... 25 Expectation of All Stakeholders
• Farewell to a colleague...............................................27
• Staff Update.............................................................. 28 MISSION

8 New Vehicles In the best interests of the iTaukei landowners and
stakeholders we will:
Eight vehicles have been purchased by the Board to improve
its fleet and all have been distributed to the regions. The 1) Deliver competent, smart, sustainable and resilient estate
distribution list includes one for Nadi, one for Rakiraki, one land management services to all our customers;
for Korovou, one for Ba, one for Labasa and two for Lautoka.
The cost is about half a million dollars. 2) Provide the best financial and investment services to the
iTaukei landowners, ensure sufficient land are reserved to
meet their immediate and future needs;

3) Automate through modern technology systems and
processes to accelerate organizational growth, innovation
and business delivery;

4) Promote partnerships with government, regional
and international sustainable development goals and
conventions;

5) Promote equality of opportunities for all Fijians, develop
human capital management and recognize performance;

6) Uphold good governance, inclusiveness, visibility and
inculcate a culture of growth, innovation, productivity
and excellence in the workforce.

VALUES
I –– Innovation
T –– Transparency & Trust
A –– Accountability
U –– Unique
K –– Knowledgeable
E –– Effectiveness & Efficiency
I –– Integrity

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Board Sub-Committee Meeting starts

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1. GMHR HFC Mrs Rosie Fong ... an independent member of the HR Sub-Committee with TLTB director Lawrence Tikaram.
2. Presenters at the Estate Operations Sub-Committee ... MNW Natadra, MCE Volai, MTD Qalo and SLUP Nadraiqere.
3. HR Sub-Comittee in motion at the TLTB Boardroom in Suva.
4. Chairman of the Governance, Audit & Risk Sub-Committee Ratu Tevita Momoedonu listens to the presentation from senior managers at the Boardroom.

Quarterly Board Sub-Committee meetings had started this month in Suva as planned.
The four sub-committees instituted are in the areas of:

(i) Human Resource Sub-Committee
(ii) Information Technology Sub-Committee
(iii) Governance, Audit & Risk Sub-Committee
(iv) and Estate Operations Sub-Committee
General Manager Mr Tevita Kuruvakadua said that all the Board Sub-Committees have been put in place to assist in vetting all
policies papers before they are taken up for further discussion and endorsement by the Board. This is also part of strengthening
Board governance for TLTB and also to ensure that all functions and operations of the mandate of Board are properly
surpervised and monitored
Mr Kuruvakadua said this would improve quality of the papers and the quality of the presentations and provide an opportunity
for senior managers, team leaders and supervisors to present their papers and views directly with the Board.
Issues and projects to be presented at this meetings include all developments projects and initiatives currently underway in
our respective Departments to be highlighted and reported to the Board Sub-Committees.
Independent professionals from other organisations like HFC Bank, FNPF and USP have also been engaged for the HR Sub
Committee, IT Sub-Committee and the Operations Sub-Committee to create constructive and well-informed discussions. The
independent committee members are experts in their own field and will add value to discussion on certain topics within the
different sub-committees. n

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Official Opening of the Ba
Sub-Regional Office

THE new iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) office was To those of you here in Ba; gone are the days where you
officially opened in Ba Town this month and was aimed will have to travel all the way down to Lautoka to get to
at assisting people of the province with their land needs. TLTB. The Ba Sub-Regional Office will make life much
easier for you and for landowners and we now have the
At the opening of the TLTB office, Fiji’s Prime Minister best of opportunities to utilize our land given the full
Voreqe Bainimarama said TLTB had come a long way since services and support provided by the ten senior staff that
its inception in 1940 and would continue to modernise will be manning this new office.
changes with development to assist people in Fiji.
Looking at the vast land areas of the 432 landowning
“Today, the TLTB has taken the decision to open their units we can almost see the amount of unused land that
office here in Ba in recognition of the opportunities we have in Ba; which at the same time present to us
that are available in this western part of Viti Levu,” Mr the opportunity to take advantage of the Tax Free Zone
Bainimarama said. and come up with a land utilization plan that will benefit
you the landowners, your families, your children and your
He said the opening of the office was essential because grandchildren.
Ba covered an area of about 383,000 acres of land in
which only about 32 per cent was leased out. The opening of this new office is a sign of confidence
by my Government in what you already have in Ba and
In 2016, TLTB was also able to improve by expanding the I encourage all of you to believe in yourself, utilize our
provision of its land management services in Korovou to land and start a dream.
cover the Tailevu North Area and Rakiraki for the people
of Ra. The new office will serve all landowners, tenants,
investors and the general public to offer all the necessary
Last year, they have opened their office in Sigatoka to itaukei land management services including:
cater for the province of Nadroga Navosa and another
office Savusavu for the people of Cakaudrove. Today • General lease and iTaukei land enquiries;
they have expanded further by opening another office in • Landowner consultations and awareness;
this soccer-crazy town; which is why we are here today. • iTaukei Land Lease and licence applications, rent

The TLTB Board has taken the decision to set up a TLTB reassessments, lease expiries and renewals, land
Office here in Ba in recognition of the great opportunities developments and subdivisions, land marketing and
that are available in this north-western side of Viti Levu enforcement of lease or licence terms and conditions
covering a total itaukei land area of around 358,000 and compliances;
acres and with only about 32 percent being leased out. • Dealing, survey instructions and lease documentation;
• Lease rental payments;
Ba is part of the larger Ba Province, geographically the • Registration of iTaukei landowner’s for equal rent
largest of Fiji’s fourteen Provinces. It is an agricultural distribution; and,
centre, where sugar cane has long been the mainstay • Assist iTaukei landowners leasing their own land, and
of the local economy with some manufacturing projects provide support and advice on business initiatives. n
which have also been established over the years.

There are nine districts between Lautoka City and Page 5 Photo Captions:
Rakiraki Town that will be the area of operation for this
new office which includes the district of Nailaga, Bulu, 1. Unveiling the plague at the Ba Sub-Regional Office is the Chief Guest,
Tavua, Qaliyalatini, Nalotawa, Magodro, Naloto, Savatu, the Hon. Prime Minister and TLTB chairman Voreqe Bainimarama.
and Nadrau.
2. Reverend Jokatama Rabukuivalu blessed the new office in front of the
TLTB’s plan is aligned to the vision of my Government Chief Guest Voreqe Bainimarama.
and that is to create accessibility to iTaukei Land in line
with Pillar 6 of the National Charter for Change Peace 3. Turaga na Tui Ba Ratu Filimoni Nale and Prime Minister Voreqe
& Progress and also provide as much opportunities as Bainimarama
possible for not only for tenants of various types but also
for landowners to lease their own land. 4. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama have the time to talk to our
Executive Management Team as well as with staff of the new office.
This is also part of the TLTB Board’s visibility to see that
its services that are normally provided only in the main 5. Members of the public most of whom have not met the PM in person
rural areas are decentralized in to other town centers gathered outside the office to ctach a glimpse of him.
as part of Government plans to provide accessibility and
improvement of its services to all Fijians. 6. Accompanying the PM inside the new TLTB office were Commissioner
West Mr Manasa Tagicakibau, PS iTaukei Affairs Mr Naipote Katonitabua.

7. Also present were MNW Ema Natadra and Minister for Waterways Mr
Mahendra Reddy.

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Chairman’s Public Consultation

Sigatoka, Nadi, Ba, Lautoka, Tavua and Rakiraki

A series of public consultation organised by TLTB with the help of the Ministry of Sugar and the Fiji Sugar Corporation was held in
Sigatoka, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba, Rakiraki and Tavua this month headed by the Prime Minister who is also the Chairman of TLTB and Minister
for Sugar Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama.

The venue and date are as follows:

Sigatoka - Sai Hall, Sigatoka Town (14th February 2018)
Nadi - Nadi Civic Centre, Nadi (14th February 2018)
Lautoka - Sugar Cane Growers Fund Hall (15th February 2018)
Ba - Ba Civic Centre Carpark (15th February 2018)
Tavua - Kshatriya Hall (16th February 2018)
Rakiraki - Post Fiji Ground (16th February 2018)

Mr Bainimarama said, “He is receiving queries and comments on the use of itaukei land and wants TLTB to clarify to stakeholders. There
are also a lot of complaints and concerns on delay in TLTB service delivery and attending to old cases referred to his office.

Mr Bainimarama wants the respective Senior Managers and staff to take appropriate actions on outstanding pending cases and facilitate
and respond to stakeholders. n

iTaukei land is safe: Chairman

Do not feel insecure or threatened because your rights are protected under the Constitution.

This was the assurance given by the Prime Minister and TLTB Chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama to iTaukei landowners
during the greater West joint public consultations by TLTB and the Fiji Sugar Corporation this month.

TLTB issued 2100 new leases of different categories to tenants and had also distributed $73 million to traditional landowners
representing revenue from a portfolio of 40,000 leaseholders.
Under the Government’s equal rent distribution policy put into effect from late 2015, a total of 38,600 iTaukei landowners
under the age of 18 years had $33.6 million saved in their individual savings accounts, the Chairman said.

The interest of iTaukei from different areas of stakeholders continued to rise which was a positive sign of confidence,
he said. To make iTaukei land more attractive and enhance confidence, he said the Board had issued longer commercial
agricultural leases.

“There is a need to strike a balance between accessibility to land with the future needs of iTaukei landowners,’’ Mr
Bainimarama said.

“This is undertaken by TLTB through the reservation of land process where the TLTB can set aside a portion of their various
holdings as a reserve for their future generations and not to be leased out.”

In 2017, he said the board had set aside 2106 hectares of land to 13 landowning units that applied through this process. n

Page 7 Photo Captions:
1. Commissioner Western Mr Manasa Tagicakibau walks the Prime Minister and TLTB Chairman Hon Voreqe Bainimarama at the Sai Hall the venue of

the Sigatoka Joint Government Consultation.
2. Most turn out in numbers including landowners and tenants to raise their issue directly to the PM.
3. EA Savenaca Sauvou answering a question raised by a concerned tenant at Sigatoka.
4. TLTB officers from Nadi and Sigatoka were also busy in trying to find solutions for customers.
5. DGMORD Solo Nata making an announcement together with other Government Officials while waiting for the Prime Minister.
6. Senior Government Officials in Sigatoka waiting for the PM while the people started moving in to the Hall.
7. South-West Team led by SEO Operations Inosi Tauvoli were on hand to attend to queries in Sigatoka.
8. RC Mosese Ratubalavu started solving reserve issues at the corridor even before the consultations starts.
9. Job seeker ... Imitiaz Khan who got a job as a tractor driver at the Public Consultation in Sigatoka.

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Landowners to benefit from $3.72 million

138,899 individual landowning unit members who have individual bank accounts will get a share from the funds collected by the
Committee For Better Utilisation Of Land (CBUL).

Prime Minister and TLTB Chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama announced this during the public consultation with the iTaukei Land Trust
Board and sugar industry stakeholders in Taleinavuruvuru, Sigatoka, and also revealed that a total of 1,479 iTaukei landowning units
whose land lots are leased out for agricultural purposes will receive $3.72 million.

Mr Bainimarama said since 2010, government has paid out more than $50 million under the Committee For Better Utilisation Of Land and
this has directly impacted on the renewal of land leases from 47 percent in 2010 to over 80 percent in 2017.

He addad that iTaukei landowners’ rights are protected under the constitution.

Mr Bainimarama also confirmed that TLTB had also facilitated the return of Schedule A and Schedule B land to iTaukei landowners who
need them.

He said this process took a slow start but now has been fast tracked and is near completion.

Mr Bainimarama said TLTB had allotted 1,074 parcels or over 90% of Schedule A land and 87% of Schedule B land to iTaukei landowners.

Mr Bainimarama said this facilitation has led to more iTaukei land that was held under the Crown prior to 2003 to be reverted to iTaukei
landowners.

He said this would allow for more land to be used for sugarcane farming and other developments. n

Most squatters on reserved land: GM

NATIVE landowners giving up reserved land have been one of the causes of the increase in squatter settlements, General Manager Tevita
Kuruvakadua during the greater west public consultation this month.

He said the reserved land was meant to be given to members of the landowning unit.

“All these squatter settlements have come about because landowners are agreeing in the first place to accept informal tenants to come
in and squat on their land,” he said.

“It’s the doing of the respective landowners. Most of these squatter settlements are carried out on iTaukei reserved land, meaning these
are land put aside by the landowning unit to be occupied only by the members of the unit or the members of that particular mataqali.”
He said this was beyond the control of the TLTB.

“For example, if a friend of the landowner comes in from a different part of Fiji and he wants to settle where the landowner is. He goes
directly to the landowning unit and makes a sevusevu and makes a goodwill payment and so they are allowed to settle on their land.

“They do this without coming through the formal process of going to TLTB.

“He said the board was working closely with Government to convert 19 informal settlements into residential areas.

“This will also allow landowners to get a proper lease and that will enable them to receive lease payments in a structured manner. Most
of the landowners are appreciative of the initiative.

“They understand that this is an expensive exercise and it will take a while before everything is formalised and that includes them
receiving their proper lease documents.” He added. n

Page 9 Photo Captions:
1. DGMORD Solo Nata attending to a tenant at the Sugar cane Growers Fund Hall in Lautoka.
2. Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama delivers his address at the Public Consultation in Lautoka.
3. DGMORD Solo Nata enjoying a laugh during the consultation in Lautoka.
4. Tenants and landonwers joining the queue as they prepare to ask questions and raise their grievances to the PM.
5. A former police officer raises an issue of recruitment on merit in the Fiji Police Force.
6. A tenant raises an issue in Lautoka while the NW staff are busy at the background.
7. The full house SCGF Hall.
8. Minister for Waterways Mr Mahendra Reddy and the two bosses of FSC at the background.

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$33.6m set aside for youths

PRIME Minister and iTaukei Land Trust Board chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama has revealed that 38,600 iTaukei youths will collect
a total of $33.6 million from TLTB lease money when they turn 18.

He made the revelation during a public consultation with landowners and sugarcane growers in the Western Division this month.
Mr Bainimarama also said the TLTB issued 2100 new leases in 2017.

“From the current 40,000 leases, TLTB collected and distributed $73m in trust income for the landowners,” Mr Bainimarama said.
“And a total of 38,600 iTaukei landowners under the age of 18 years have total funds of $33.6m saved in their individual savings
accounts for their future and their shares will be given to them when they turn 18.”

He also explained a new long-term agricultural lease introduced by TLTB would benefit both landowners and tenants.
However, Mr Bainimarama also emphasised the need to ensure that landowners had parcels of land available for their own use.

“There is a need to strike a balance between the accessibility to land and the future needs of the landowners.

“This is undertaken by TLTB through the reservation of land process which encourages the landowners to put aside land reserves for
their future generations.

“In 2017, the board set aside 2106 hectares of land for 13 landowning units that had applied for this process.” n

Schedule A and B state land returned to
landowners: Chairman

Prime Minister and TLTB Chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama confirmed at the Joint Government Consultation with the public this
month that TLTB has returned Schedule A and Schedule B lands to landowners.

These are land which were under the control of the State however is now administered by the TLTB.

Mr Bainimarama said this process which took a slow start since 2003 has been fast-tracked and was nearing completion.

“Out of 1100 parcels of Schedule A land TLTB has already allotted 1074 parcels or 95% to landowning units for schedule B lands out
of 304 parcels of land TLTB has allotted 265 parcels or 87% to landowning units.”

Mr Bainimarama said this led to more itaukei land that used to be crown land prior to 2003 returned to landowners.

“This also implies that if the existing leases were in the reverted parcels of Schedule A and Schedule B lands, the lease monies would
now be transferred to the new allotted landowning units. This iss a positive development for landowners which also means more lease
monies for the itaukei and more land for sugar cane farming and other developments.”

The Chairman said this also implied that if the existing leases were in the reverted parcels of Schedule A and Schedule B lands, the
lease monies would now be transferred to the new allotted landowning units.

Mr Bainimarama added this was a positive development for landowners as this meant more lease monies for the itaukei and more land
for sugar cane farming and other developments.

However this will depend on the best land use available for that particular area. n

Photo Captions:
1. Getting a brief on his arrival the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama set out the consultation agenda.
2. Delivering his adress at the public consultation in Ba PM Voreqe Bainimarama.
3. Tea Ladies ... EA Makelesi Duguivalu and AC Taina Rabuno at the consultation in Ba.
4. Tenants and landowners waiting patiently inside the tents at Ba Civic Centre carpark.
5. Police Commissioner Sitiveni Qiliho also take time to answer a request for a police post by a concerned citizen.
6. The busy Ba Civic Centre carpark.
7. ALA Marika Tawakevou and MTD Peni Qalo attending to queries in Ba.
8. Staff from Suva, Lautoka and nadi were all at hand at hand to assist answering questions raised by members of the public.

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PM happy about TLTB

Schedule A and B state lands returned
to landowners: PM

The TLTB Consultation Team at the conclusion of the Joint Government Consultation led by the
PM and TLTB Chairman Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama in Rakiraki

At the conclusion of the Greater West Joint Government Consultation hosted by TLTB and Ministry of Sugar, the Prime Minister and
Chairman of the TLTB Board of Trustees Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama was full of praises with TLTB’s service delivery.

Mr Bainimarama called all government officials together after the last public consultation in Tavua to how dissatisfied he was with most
government services in the West with particular mention of the Lands Department.

On tour with him for the three-day six-venue public consultation this month were government representatives from the Health,
Education, Waterways, Local Government, Environment, Sugar, Fisheries, Forests, Employment & Industrial Relations, Infrastructure
& Transport, Rural & Maritime Development and Agriculture.

Government owned companies on tour also include the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) and the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA).

General manager Mr Teviuta Kuruvakakdua commended all staff for the effort put in so far.

“We did well compared to other organization but there is still room for improvement,” he said.

Mr Kuruvakakdua said that there will be more conusltations of this sort in the future including the one for Vanua Levu in April.

“You have to know the common issues from your areas of operations by looking at the CMS. As we are moving towards the election,
we need to clarify issues, clarify our processes. We need to remain within the mandate of the Act and listen to the voice of the
stakeholders,” he added. n

ALA Tawakevou and EO Rakaria Full tent again at Rakiraki Consultation Team winding down
after a hectic week of consultation

Page 13 Photo Captions:

1. PM and Chairman addressing an issue in Tavua.
2. DGMORD Nata, MNW Natadra and EO Saratibau patiently waiting for the public at the Tavua

public consultation.
3. PS Public Enterprises Mr David Kolitagane and Minister for Local Praveen Bala in Tavua.
4. EO Semo with a client at the consultation.
5. A huge crowd again in Tavua.
6. Turaga na Tui Tavua Ratu Nacanieli Uqeuqe also attend.
7. GM Kuruvakadua address a query on itaukei land.
8. ASEO Ba Joseva Ratabua quenching his thirst in the hot Tavua weather.
9. Stage set for Tavua with the dominating TLTB banners.

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Key Audit Issues from 2017

Below are some of the key risk areas identified by the Ongoing discussions are held with the administration
Audit Unit last year. Senior Managers and staff who are the team of the Yalamanchilli system (based in India) to
owners of these risks are advised to take necessary steps to ensure that all issues faced are addressed in a timely
eliminate these risks: manner. IMPLEMENTATION STATUS: On-going.

1. Culture of non-compliance: A major issue which 6. Double and Miss Distribution Risk (Pending
the Corporate Governance committee is addressing rejection listings from the bank are usually
through the introduction of Governance policies and delayed and it takes additional time to correct
procedures with the assistance of the Senior and records and ensure that the payment is made
Executive Management. Change Management and to the correct landowner’s bank account. Risk
High Performance trainings have also been held to of double or missed distributions or Risk of
assist staff change the culture of Non-compliance. complaints for delay): TLTB Trust team is working
Monthly reminders are issued by the Manager Human closely with the commercial banks to ensure that the
Resources and the Deputy GM Operations, Research & turnaround time for processing rejected distributions
Development. IMPLEMNTATION STATUS: On-going. (Due to dormant bank account etc). IMPLEMENTATION
STATUS: On-going.
2. Land Valuation Risk (Understating the value
of iTaukei land during the lease application 7. ERD Project – the linking of Tokatoka numbers
processing – therefore understating the premium (TLFC data) to the Distribution Units (TLTB data)
and the rental calculated): Estates Operations is currently carried out by the I.T Department:
Manual now includes a standard method for land Audit is recommending this process to be carried out by
valuation. A new position have been created (Senior the Reserves department as they have the information
Estate Officer – Compliance) in the Operations structure and knowledge for this process. Procedures currently
to ensure thorough verifications and compliance prior being drafted by a team formed by Reserves, Trust and
to issuing of leases or other processes.IMPLEMNTATION I.T Implementation of the Procedures will commence
STATUS: On-going. with Reserves once the Procedures is finalised and
approved. IMPLEMENTATION STATUS: On-going.
3. Collusion between TLTB estate officers and the
landowners or tenants resulting in breaches and 8. Estates Operations - Missing land files and case
illegal practice such as land speculation: The files: Quality circles are being formed to help assist
compliance aspect of the Operations has been reviewed with creation of new ideas to improve the filing system.
resulting in the creation of the Senior Estate Officer – Graduates are recruited to man the filing rooms in the
Compliance position effective January 2018. Estates regions before they are fed into the main operations
Operations Manual has also been reviewed to ensure structure. Landsoft system is being continually enhanced
that the controls and processes are improved to prevent to help improve the management of the filing system.
fraud and illegal actions. Continuous reminders are IMPLEMENTATION STATUS: On-going.
being made to keep officers alert. IMPLEMENTATION
STATUS: On-going. 9. Lack of effective and timely system
reconciliations in the Finance department. The
4. Payroll Risk (Lack of integration of the Payroll reconciliations are only prepared when preparing
system (Linksoft) and the Biometric machines for the financial audit by E&Y: The new Financial
which are used for signing in and out in a working system has been programmed to accommodate system
day): Technical issues beyond TLTB’s control which the reconciliations however a few technical issues are
vendor is working on. IMPLEMENTATION STATUS: On- pending with the supplier of the new system to ensure
going. that the reconciliations are rolled out from March 2018.
IMPLEMENTATION STATUS: Pending.
5. Equal Rent Distribution Risk (registration of
and distribution of lease monies for landowners 10. Delayed banking in the sub-regional offices – lack
is heavily dependent on the accuracy of TLFC of monitoring and supervision: Finance Training for
data and the accuracy of the system structure Team Leaders who are heading the sub-regional offices
(Yalamanchilli) to ensure that the landowners is pending and planned for 1st Quarter 2018. Checklists
are accurately and efficiently distributed their for verification and monitoring are also pending from
lease monies): Service Level Agreement is now Finance head office. Tighter monitoring is required
in place between TLTB and the Government of Fiji. over the cash handling processes. IMPLEMENTATION
STATUS: Pending. n

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TLTB’s ISO Standards
From SIA Miriama Delai’s Perspective

TLTB currently have two ISO standards purchased for use:

(i) ISO 31000 on Risk Management
(ii) ISO 9001 on Quality Management Systems

The ISO 31000 on Risk Management was purchased last
year (2017) last year for the formulation of the TLTB Risk
Management Policy and Framework which was under IA’s
responsibility in 2016.

The following principles of Quality Management followed when we answer the phone or the procedures for
Systems (ISO 9001) are very similar to the Categories PA’s when they manage correspondences and bring ups. This
of the Fiji Business Excellence (FBEA) which will need to be is not captured anywhere but the use of phones for customer
instilled in all staff once we adopt ISO 9001: service and the role of PA’s are contributing so much to the
Board’s performance and very much reflect TLTB’s quality of
- Customer Focus service. Right now there is no standard way of answering the
- Leadership phone here at TLTB. It’s all “Bula, Io, Ni sa bula, Hello, etc.
- Engagement of People
- Process Approach Once an organization has chosen to use ISO 9001 standard
- Improvement operating procedures, it should begin to instill in its employees
- Evidence-based decision making the Quality Management Principles. Next, the business
- Relationship management should analyze the standards and conduct a gap analysis to
understand how existing processes might need to change
When we comply with the ISO International standards, we are to comply with ISO 9001. Finally, the organization should
basically benchmarking with the world because the standard work through the adjustment of existing processes and the
is used worldwide by millions of companies/organisations development of new processes to achieve compliance with
that strive for and maintain Quality performance and service the ISO 9001 standards
delivery to its stakeholders. (Note: one key learning from
Vodafone’s benchmarking was that they document each and Indeed it will be a huge and valuable project that will need
every procedure/process they carry out. So everything they to be planned properly for a successful implementation. If
do is standard. This could be one reason they excel in the there’s a will there’s a way.
FBEA president awards).
“The adoption of a quality management system is a strategic
For the purpose of standardization of processes and decision for an organization that can help to improve
procedures for the whole of TLTB, in brief this will require its overall performance and provide a sound basis for
a collective effort by each individual in the organisation to sustainable development initiatives. The potential benefits
ensure that all processes and procedures they perform to an organization of implementing a quality management
are documented by each of them before these are then put system based on this International Standard are:
together into a Standard ISO template which will be referred
to as the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP’s). a) the ability to consistently provide products and services
that meet customer and applicable
It will be advisable to appoint a committee or team to statutory and regulatory requirements;
spearhead this valuable exercise and it must also be captured b) facilitating opportunities to enhance customer satisfaction;
in the members respective annual PMS. (they will be involved c) addressing risks and opportunities associated with its
in the planning, research, analysing, aligning, adjusting context and objectives;
processes etc ). d) the ability to demonstrate conformity to specified quality
management system requirements. n
Right now, our processes and procedures are recorded
separately in all different standards & formats - Estates have
their own manual in its own format, Finance, I.T, Reserves
each ave their own formats etc. Even most procedures have
not been documented (a simple example is the procedures

< 15

MATAQALI NAVUSABALAVU The main purpose for setting up this particular
RECONCILIATION MEETING meeting is to clear out differences between members
of Mataqali Navusabalavu.

The meeting between the
TLTB and the Mataqali
Navusabalavu was held at
the Ba Office conference
room on the 20th of
February, 2018. The Board
were represented by Deputy
General Manager Operation,
Research and Development
Mr Solomoni Nata, Manager
North Western Region Mrs.
Ema Natadra and Acting
Senior Estate Officer Ba
Sub Regional Office Joseva
Ratabua.

DGMORD Nata, MNW Natadra and A/SEO Ratabua with Mataqali Navusabalavu reps at Ba Office

The Mataqali Navusabalavu

is one of the clans under Yavusa Bila from the village of Tavua. An issue of trustees was also discussed as raised by Waisake

The mataqali were represented by retired school teacher and Ratoto. The DGMORD responded and managed to solidify the

current Turaga ni Mataqali Master Manasa Naiceru and members Boards position and stand on this issue is that the Board only

of tokatoka Naitokoraki, Nasiriti and Naitokotoko. recognize the Mataqali as the landowner registered under the

iTaukei Land and Fisheries Commission and not the itokatoka.
The main purpose for setting up this particular meeting is to clear Any Deed of Trust that arises from this particular landowning unit
out differences between members of Mataqali Navusabalavu. should be from the Mataqali and not the itokatoka.

In his opening comment Mr Nata stated that the issue of LOU In the conclusion of the meeting, Mr Nata further emphasized
differences between members of Mataqali Navusabalavu has on the need to live in harmony. He said that the Board is trying
been in existence for 20 years. He further stated that TLTB its best to ensure that the Mataqali Navusabalavu live peacefully
position is clear and that it will look after the land that has been and in harmony because the land that they owned is entrusted to
entrusted under law to the Board and at the same time it will the Board and it is the Board duty to ensure that it is developed
look after those who own them in this case the landowning units. to its full potential and financial return is realized. These benefits
will only be realized if they understand each other and most
Turaga ni Mataqali Manasa Naiceru totally concur with the importantly listen to one another. It is time now that such
statement made by Mr Nata saying that it was true that LOU differences to be put aside so that it does not affect the future
differences surely exists within the mataqali. He further stated generation as well.
that the mataqali receives more lease monies annually from
any other landowning units in the village of Tavua. However, he The LOU agreed that their differences have affected them and
further stated that without love, harmony and understanding all their traditional obligation to the Mataqali and to the vanua as
these monies will be of no value meaning that members will only they are the kingsmaker to the Turaga Na Tui Tavua. As a way
cater for the things they think is best for them and not for the forward, it was agreed the mataqali to go back and to reconcile
mataqali especially in terms of development. and resolve the differences amongst them. After this is carried
out, TLTB to be made aware of the outcome. This way forward
There were other issues raised by members of Mataqali was positively taken into consideration by the members of the
Navusabalavu such as Waisake Ratoto on the lease applications Mataqali Navusabalavu.
lodged by him and his children. These applications were totally
against by Setariki who is a member of the same tokatoka The meeting was a successful one as this is the first time that
Naitokotoko as Waisake. The concern came about as all other the elders of the Mataqali Navusabalavu have come together to
male members have children and would also like to lease land discuss and sort out their differences. The members of Mataqali
where Mr Ratoto is intending individual leases for his children. Navusabalavu returned satisfied with the outcome of the meeting
This was then advised by DGMORD that Waisake’s children to knowing that this is the first step towards a better and fruitful
collectively apply for 1 lease only to allow leasing opportunities future. n
for others and was agreed by all.

< 16

FILMING IN FIJI

An interview with EO Marika Lewayada on Mataqali informed that you will provide the exact figure with details
Nawanawaisau land in Kadavu (10% and 90%)

Filming is new for Fiji as well as for TLTB and for the landowners Total Preparation Costs: $12,000.00
in particular. Any filming on iTaukei Land will have to be dealt with
by TLTB as required by law. TLTB facilitates filming production by Total Filming Costs: $3640.00
issuing filming licence which has a commencement date and an
expiry date. Filming on iTaukei Reserve Land will not undergo TOTAL = $15,640.00
any de-reservation process but consultation and inspection is a
must. Consultation is conducted so that landowners are properly TLTB then deducts 10% totaling $1,564.00. Balance of
briefed on the proposed development; listen to the landowners’
viewpoints and comments. We also require landowners’ majority $14,076.00, which will be received by the Mataqali
consent. Nawanawaisau.

Below are EO Lewayada’s response to some of the issues raised 3. What is the future of filming in Kadavu and Yasawa? Is
by a landowner on filming in Kadavu: it true that landowners need to establish our trustee,
Bank Account and get all the relevant documents for
1. Has TLTB facilitated any payment to any individual registration and to submit a plan on how the money
to distribute to those that were involved in the first will be made into good use?
shooting? If yes, to who and how much? (If you have
records of names and how much they supposed to get). With regards to the future of filming productions in Fiji (Kadavu
These will help us to respond to the individuals that are still and Yasawa), as we speak, TLTB has not received any formal
after us. confirmation of any plans to shoot in the future.

It is important to understand that any payment from lease As you have been rightly told, landowners need to establish a
proceeds or filming proceeds through special licence filming trustee, Bank Account and get all the relevant documents for
will be settled through TLTB. Payment for shooting has been registration and to submit a plan on how the money will be made
facilitated by TLTB for the usage of the beach front beside the into good use. Whatever has been briefed by our Finance & Trust
Buliya village, this same land was named Buliya by production Department in Suva in regards to the distribution of funds, please
and it was the only site under Mataqali Nawanawaisau that was take them on board and submit all the requirements.
used for this trial productions. The shooting schedule for this site
is provided below: It is important to understand that the political status of the
country plays a major role for this kind of investment to occur and
Site Preparation : 6 Days of preparation @ $2,000.00 per day with the election around the corner, let’s all hope that things will
Shooting: 1 Day @ $3640.00 per day. work out well for all of us and investors will have the confidence
to invest in Fiji.
However, the village infrastructure fund was paid directly by
the filming Company (Pacific Line Productions Pte Ltd) to the We take note of the village internal process in regards to any
Turaga ni Koro of Buliya. The fund was negotiated and charged development and we appreciate the formalities in place. However,
by TLTB to the filming productions to assist the village in the for TLTB to facilitate any development on iTaukei Land, please
development of any village project as Mataqali Nawanawaisau be advised that we only consult the subject Mataqali that owns
members will enjoy the filming fees. a particular land required for any development and we will not
engage in any meeting with any development committee that
2. Can you confirm how much the Mataqali does not have any legal rights or interests over that piece of
Nawanawaisau is expected to receive from TLTB? land. I hope you will understand TLTB’s position in this case,
Upon visiting the Suva office yesterday, we have been as the land belongs to the Mataqali Nawanawaisau and not the
development committee. I believe it is wiser that each Mataqali
have their own land development committee. n

< 17

TOURISM DEPARTMENT

1ST QUARTER CSR ACTIVITY

Coral Planting at Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort
17th February 2018

A Sustainable Approach Few factors leading to coral dying off / bleaching’s are:

In the heart of the Coral Coast on the western side of the main 1. Climate change - Water becomes warmer in temperature as a
island of Viti Levu, 80kms along the Queen’s Road from Nadi result of climate change allows coral bleaching / die out;
airport, Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort embodies the Fijian traditions
of friendliness and hospitality. 2. Over Fishing;
3. Use of dynamite;
Modelled on a traditional Fijian village, the resort is a five minute 4. Increase level of sediments;
drive from Sigatoka Town’s riverside shopping centre, the main 5. Water pollution from nearby villages & from the resort itself;
township on the Coral Coast, and midway between Nadi and 6. Natural disaster.
Suva. The team went down to the resort on the 17/02/2018 for
coral planting, as an organized first quarter CSR activity between The resort has been working tirelessly for the past few years with
the team & the resort. The team includes: other government bodies and NGO’s in trying to restore healthy
corals and maintain a clean and clear marine environment for healthy
• MTD Qalo & sustainable marine plants & animal species.
• SEOT Moce
• PATD Sawau The team however did enjoyed the activity as it was one of its kind
• EA Newa and a good experience as it was in a different environment and the
• ASLAO Ralawe position in trying to remedy the issue is a long term battle.
• EGA Makelesi The past cyclones, flooding’s and other associated hazards have
• EA Cabemaiwai really affect the corals. Marine plants and animal species have
become extinct thus creates an unhealthy & a harmful environment
The team arrived at the site at around 10:15am with a brief by for marine life and the surroundings.
the activities manager Mr. Kini on the process and procedure in
coral planting with all the required tools and equipment’s. Every individual needs to take heed of the changing time, world,
climate, weather and so on that affects our daily living and the
According to Activities Manager – Mr. Kini Coral bleaching is environment, we therefore should be play games sustainably that
a major issue at the moment and needs urgent attention for will less harm our surrounding environment & the future generation.
the protection of the marine environment, species and the Therefore the team did advocate on sustainability in being part of our
surrounding location. The team has always been in support very first CSR for this first quarter for 2018 “save our ocean” effort in
and work towards sustainable actions for nature / environment. combating the drastic effect of climate change and help sustain our
The increasing & drastic effects of climate change have allowed beautiful and unique environment.
the team to be part of the action plan supporting and working
towards mitigating climate change effect locally. The team managed to transplant more than expected coral cones in
different locations within the sites.
It was however amazing to witness how marine plants and animal
species rely heavily on these corals for habitat and support. This
action will however supports the resort as well as the local livelihood
for and within the Pacific island countries. n

Above are cages where giant clam of different species are kept and breed. MTD and the team - taking chances glancing at the spectacular species of
giant calms. These giant clams helps supports the smaller marine species as habitat and protection.

This giant calm cages are for daily tourist attraction as well with its different unique colour & species. The resort has been in full support towards
sustainable living & development considering the drastic effect of climate change.

< 18

TEAM arrived at the site

Breeding place for coral before transplant Mr Kini - briefing the team

Transplanting in the process

< 19 Group at the beach in Nadroga Enjoyed the cool weather in the sea

SW Talanoa & 2 1
BE Launch 3
4
Business Excellence, as described by the 5
European Foundation for Quality Management
(EFQM), refers to;

”Outstanding practices in managing the
organisation and achieving results, all based
on a set of eight fundamental concepts”,
these being, “results orientation; customer
focus; leadership and constancy of purpose;
management by processes and facts; people
development and involvement; continuous
learning, innovation and improvement;
partnership development; and public
responsibility”. (ref: BPRI.com )

The first Talanoa Session for South Western
Region and Tourism Department was held
at the South Western Region Boardroom
on Friday 2nd of February, 2018 with a high
turnout of staff present and sharing their
views on how corporate and operational
services within the region can be improved,
EOM compliance guided by the organisation’s
values to achieve the vision and mission of
TLTB as an organisation .

The session was chaired by the FBEA regional
rep EAI Suliasi Sereiwai, followed by the
cutting of the cake by Manager South Western
Region Mr Soloveni Masi and Manager Tourism
Department Mr Peni Qalo while refreshment
was served.

It was also interesting to watch other regions’
participation via Skype. Engaging in a joint
Talanoa Session with regions in this manner
will be very effective especially when sharing
new ideas so that we can all proceed together
as one organisation the President’s Award at
the FBEA as the target for 2018.

“United We Stand, Divided We Fall”.

God Bless TLTB.

S. Serewai
FBEA Rep-SW

Photo Captions:
1. Tourism Department and South-West

Region in a group photo at the launch in
Nadi.
2. The BE Cake and MTD Qalo in prersenta-
tion mode.
3. EA Serewai leading the discussions on
Srategic Planning
4. Cutting the cake ... MSW Masi and MTD
Qalo

< 20

1st Talanoa Session in 1
Suva for 2018 2
3
The first Talanoa Session for 2018 was held at 4
all regional offices led by the Head Office in
Suva on the same topic and at the same time.
This was also the first time for such an
arrangement and all offices were wired in to
talk and see each other through Skype.
In Suva, MSPRD Ms Reijeli Taylor started
the discussion with the presentation on the
Strategfic Corporate Plan 2018.
In particular, she presented the vision behind
some of the directional changes that the
Board is going through including the change
in the Mission Statement, Key Performance
Outcomes and how this is linked to all the
individual staff and their day to day work.
The IT Department is working on getting all
the regions connected through Sype so that
all staff can interact with others through the
video. n

Photo Captions:
1. DGMORD Solo Nata and MSPRD Reijeli Taylor

cutting the Business Excellence Cake at the
first Talanoa Session in 2018 with the launch
in Suva.
2. Master of Ceremony EA Eparama Young in
motion.
3. GM Tevita Kuruvakadua with an announce-
ment in Suva.
4. MSPRD Reijeli Taylor during her presentation.

< 21

Northen Region MN Josaia Waqairatu
Talanoa Session Northern staff in attendance at the talanoa

3.30 pm - The session began with a song and a prayer. Attentive and full concentration
EO Daunibau and TL Maravou
3.45 pm – Live feed on the introduction of the Talanoa Session from HQ.

4.00 pm – Regional Manager North [Mr Josaia Waqairatu] introduced the talanoa session.
He had emphasized on the need to grow in excellence and maintain compliance in all scope
of work with in the office of the Northern region. The highlight of his speech was drawing
the operation and the staff of Northern Regional staff to “doing it right the first time”. Mr
Waqairatu also raised the issue of non-compliance which would only create a lot of litigation
cases and the cost would supersede the benefits. Meaning that, we may be achieving our
regional targets [income] but if we are not doing it right or with non-compliance then all
efforts would be pointless.

4.20 pm – FBE Framework was deliberated by EA Simione Limairi. In brief he had discussed
on the following:

FBEA Frameworks and Guidelines
1. FBEA Journey:
• Fiji Quality Awards Launched in 1998 by Rt Mara
• Rebranded as Fiji Business Excellence Awards in 2004
• From 1998 – 2017 it has grown from strength to strength
• 214 awards has been presented to 102 applicants for the last 17 years

2. Business Excellence Framework has some basic elements such as:
• Drivers – We refer this to our Senior Leaders as they provider direction, vision, mission

and fatherly advice for the future and achievement of Organization Goals
• Enablers- This is where the framework of an organization and its people to achieve its

goal that they have set
• Results – This are outcome of an Organization’ collective effort as it compares to past

and current performance and achievement of organization objectives.

3. Benefits of the FBEA Frameworks:
• External opinion Of the Organization – Opportunities for Improvement whereby all feed-

backs are received for the betterment of one organization
• Improvement of Performance - It also equips and organization with the capabilities to

manage it performance to achieve its results
• Learn from Best Practices - Prompt any organization to seek its best practices and learn

from superior organization

4.40 pm – Land Owners Affairs Officer Maikeli Waqatabu had contributed to the discussion
of the Talanoa Session. He had explained on the need for each regional organization to
play their part in governing compliance and also striving for excellence. He had mentioned
that he was previously an evaluator in the FBE in 2015 where he had to assess different
organization. He had mentioned that whilst his time in evaluating, he could see most of the
processes were still not complying towards the internal policies and regulation. Once again,
he had stated that by “Doing it right the first time” would solve all issue and also elevate
TLTB to one of the high performing organization in Fiji.

4.50 pm – EO Metuisela Daunibau deliberated on the Strategic Corporate Plans 2017-2019
of the Board with the vision and mission of the board and where it is headed.

5.15 pm – SEO Operation Nemani Tamani & SEO Compliance Viliame Kuilamu had discussed
on the need to understand the difference between gaining results and outcome. This is all
to better excellence within the board.

5.30 pm – Prayer for the spread that was prepared and then continued with open dialogue
and verbal exchange

< 22

Staff to declare
their interest and compliance

TLTB has a duty to fulfil the highest standards of corporate governance so says board secretary Mr Sevuloni Takele the man who have
been tasked to look at risk and corporate governance for the Board.

The TLTB Conflict of Interest Policy and Anti-Corruption Policy applies to all staff and requires individuals to declare any outside interests
that could conflict with, have the potential to conflict, or could be perceived to conflict with the interests of TLTB.
In order for TLTB and its employees to maintain the highest standards of integrity and reputation, it is essential that all employees declare
any interest that they, or members of their family, may have that could give the appearance of a conflict, even where no actual conflict
exists.

Conflicts of interest are not restricted to just financial interest but include non-financial interests as well, for instance enhancement of an
individual’s career, education or professional reputation; access to privileged information or facilities.

Declarations should ideally be made in advance when it is recognised that a conflict may occur, or if unknown at the time the conflict aris-
es. In addition, all staff (including professional services staff) are expected to submit an annual declaration on interest, even if no conflicts
exists. In these situations, the response would be ‘nil’.

According to Mr Takele, the TLTB Conflict of Interest Policy and Anti-Corruption Policy requires:

a) All staff are expected to complete and submit their Declaration of Interest Form and Declaration of Compliance Form to your respec-
tive Managers, Regional Managers and Team Leader for counter signing:

b) Senior Managers & Team Leaders (Sub-Regional Office) are expected to complete and submit a monthly Declaration of Compliance
Form as well.

Once the forms are signed by the respective Manager, Regional Managers & Team Leaders, the same to be forwarded to the Risk Officer
or the Board Secretary’s Officefor record keeping purpose. This is part of our monitoring in which the Board will be advised accordingly.

These forms can be downloaded from the Intranet. n

ERD Project Registration Status

Major (Above 18 years old)
Under the ERD Policy:
• $77.6 million has been paid to the landowners
• 46, 154 landowners have been successfully registered

Minor (Below 18 years old)
Under the ERD Policy:
• $28.2 million has been paid to minors
• 28, 389 minors have been successfully registered

The table above depicts the total count of minors (below 18 years) with lease
entitlements standing at 38,626 segmented into Province with the total value
of $33.6m. As of to date, Minors’ funds $27.6m have been invested in HFC at
a rate of 2% per annum.

< 23

Interview with the Librarian
Luisa Ofa Tabalala

Name: Ofa Tabalala
Position: Temporary Librarian
Qualification: Graduate Certificate in Library & Information Studies (USP)
Completing: Diploma in Library & Information Studies (USP - Pacific TAFE)
Work Experience:

(i) Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF)
(ii) USP Library
(iii) Pacific Theological College (PTC)

Some of challenges faced:
(i) Trying to understand and decide what resources will best fit or cater all TLTB

library
(ii) users;
(iii) Waiting for resource materials from all departments for record keeping in the
library;
(iv) Still waiting for stationeries (6 weeks now).

Opinion on having a library for TLTB:

I think it is a good idea because:
–– having a library in an organization will help staff find information and resources easily and quickly;
–– help users know what services TLTB can offer;
–– help staff know the importance of reading;
–– give staff opportunity to improve their research skills;
–– help outsiders know of the history of TLTB;
–– it can be a one stop shop for board members and senior managers if they can be physically kept in the library then we will have
get it digitalized online.

Opportunities:
–– An annual budget for the libarary;
–– CCTV to monitor movements and security of the resources;

Board Secretary Mr Sevuloni Takele said our Temprorary Librarian will be collecting data from your respective Departments/Unit so that
she could start sorting out all collected data and categorizing them.
“I therefore, humbly requesting your co-operation in allocating those data and advising us as when it is ready for collection,” he said.
“Your timely co-operation will help us fulfill one of the 2016 FBEA Feedback recommendations likewise in fulfilling one of the FBE
requirements which is Knowledge Management.
“At the moment, Secretariat office has released some information and she is currently scanning Board Papers to be uploaded to
Director’s Portal likewise Transfer Documents,” he added. n

Datec is new web host Managers unfamiliar with SCP Goodwill must be stopped

Frequent dysfunctional of the TLTB According to DGMORD Mr Solo Nata At its 409th Meeting held in February, 2010
website or downtime has really affected senior managers and assistant managers the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) Board
our business. MIT Epeli Ravula noted this are not familiar with the current Strategic of Trustees of the then Native Land Trust
in the recent Senior Managers Meeting and Corporate Plan. We need to understand Board (NLTB) approved that the demand of
have confirmed that as of 23rd February this document and how it boils down to goodwill and its payment in connection for
Datec will start hosting our website instead the Estate Officers, Estate Assistants and itaukei land leases or licenses be stopped
of Webmedia. He also gave the assurance other junior staff. Everyone must be aware and be deemed illegal. But according to
that LOU information will not be affected. that whatever we do impacts our vision general manager Mr Tevita Kuruvakadua
The idea behind it is to rebuild our website, and mission. noted that goodwill is still encouraged
which will take three (3) months. by some of our officers and needs to be
stopped immediately.

< 24

Farewell to a colleague
who is leaving the Board for further studies

Mr. Joeli Varo standing 3rd from left joined Tourism Department on 01 May 2017 as an Estate Officer. On
the 09th month to 2018 he render his resignation to pursue his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D) at PNG Univer-

sity under the BULA programme with an extensive research on Land Management and Geomatics.

On 17th February 2018 we farewelled our colleague A gifts was presented to him on behalf of the Board
to say goodbye and good luck with a lunch and as a token of appreciation and in remembrance.
refreshment.

Uniform contract cut FSC land request SCP 2018

General manager Mr Tevita TLTB must support the revitalization of At the Senior Managers Meeting general
Kuruvakakdua have given his the sugar industry in the country and manager Mr Tevita Kuruvakadua said
instruction for our Legal Department one of the key initiatives undertaken that we need to link up to higher level
to cut the contract between TLTB and in this regard is the provision of plans. He was referring to the SCP
its uniform suppliers of corporate and 12,000 hectares of land for sugar cane 2018 and the need for us to link it
bula uniform because they can’t meet farming over the next three years. up with National Development Plan,
the deadlines. Although they have GM Mr Tevita Kuruvakadua reminded Green Growth Framework and other
given their confirmation that they are senior managers at the recent SMM key development and government
fast-tracking the process we haven’t to continue to look for the land so goals and strategies. He said that he
got any feedback from them since. that we can facilitate the Fiji Sugar want TLTB officers to be confident
There has also been some issues on Corporation (FSC) request. when talking about TLTB businesses.
the new uniform by staff. “I want all of you to read through
the document and understand it,” he
< 25 added.

Seed Fund Grant for iTaukei Landowners

What are the objectives?
The provision of the best financial services and investment opportunities for the sustainability, empowerment and security of I Taukei
Landowners; the Seed Fund Grant for Landowners plays a part in one of the Boards Mission Statement in assisting landowners
through opportunities, empowerment and security.
The grant opens the opportunities for landowners to participate in income generating projects, encouraging landowners to work
together in facilitating these projects.
The grant also opens the opportunities for landowners with leases on their own land to participate also in income generating projects
with their leases facilitating further distributions to their own landowning unit.

How much was given out?
The Board for 2017 endorsed a sum of $200,000.00 being its first grant allocation. The target to help as many landowners as possible
with their projects and aspirations.

How many people benefits and where are they from?
The budget of $200,000.00 was distributed as follows to 29 recipients:

No. Name Region Use Gender File $Award
1 Sainivalati Sara NTH Goat Farming M 4/9/40196 $5000.00
Offer issued
2 Jone Masi Gasau NTH Cattle Farming M $5000.00
29/9/17
3 Penaia Namosimalua NW Cattle Farming M 4/13/40448 $5000.00
NW Cattle Farming M 4/13/6026 $5000.00
4 Jonetani Naitaka NW Bee/Honey Farming M 4/13/40501 $5000.00
NW Bee/Honey & Cash Crop Farming M 4/13/11448 $5000.00
5 Emosi Konakona CE Piggery & Cash Crop Farming M SIYB Recipient $5000.00
CE Cash Crop Farming M SIYB Recipient $5000.00
6 Napolioni Nasara CE Cash Crop Farming M SIYB Recipient $5000.00
CE Cattle Farming M 4/3/39585 $5000.00
7 Jiuta Vanakena
CE Dairy Farming G LOU Project $5000.00
8 Kavekini Navuso
CE Dairy Farming M SIYB Recipient $5000.00
9 Sakaia Tuitakova SW Livestock Farming G 6/11/40607 $5000.00
SW G LOU Project $5000.00
10 Mataqali Navitilevu SW Cattle Farming G 6/11/40859 $5000.00
SW Livestock Farming G LOU Project $5000.00
11 Yavusa Navitilevu Youth CE Poultry Farming M 4/14/40376 $5000.00
Group NW Poultry Farming F 4/13/40458 $5000.00
SW M 4/11/40815 $5000.00
12 Jiuta Ratila No. 2 NTH Cattle Farming F 2693 $5000.00
SW Cattle Farming M 40879 $5000.00
13 Ketenatukani Co Op NW Goat Farming and Yasi Planting M 4/13/40516 $5000.00
Cattle Farming
14 Vitacini Youth Group NW Cane Farming C 4/13/11469 $5000.00

15 Aseri Naucabalavu Cattle & Bee Farming $115,000

16 Erenalaya Youth Group

17 Seru Tuidravutu

18 Vani Vikoka

19 Josese Siale

20 Silika Draga

21 Kolinio Vialani

22 Waisea Ravoka

23 Rakoua Navatu & Siteri
Kutalele

TOTAL

No. Applicant Grant Note Project
$20,000.00
1 Halaiwalu Investment Co Operative $22,500.00 For equity contribution to FDB 18 Residential Lots & 1 Commercial
Limited Tui Namata, Tailevu $10,000.00 Lot
$10,000.00
2 Apenisa Tarai Tau, Nadroga $6000.00 Surfing business requesting for a fibre
$16,000.00 glass boat with engine
$84,500.00
3 Mataqali Vatuni Trust – Vatuni For equity contribution to FDB Property Investment constructions
Investment Company Lomaiviti

4 Hautava Investment – Alipate Naitau To be paid to a village for To expand the backpacker with extra
Tau, Nadroga construction of bure the construction of extra bures

5 Josateki Cumu To be paid to a sandalwood farmer Sandalwood farming
Momi, Nadroga

6 Mataqali Tacini, Deuba, Serua For equity contribution to FDB Wanting to fell their native forest on
their land.

Total 6 Submissions

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Five recipients dealing with businesses, whilst 24 recipients received the award for Agriculture.

SW 9
NW 7
NTH 3
CE 10
Total 29

Selection criteria?
The first assessment was done using the following criteria’s set out by the LSFG Committee:
a) The applicants are landowners
b) The applicants are leasing their own landowning unit land
c) The applicants have assisted themselves in starting their project and require assistance to further the same
d) The applicants are engaged in agricultural, development or commercial ventures that denote the business aspect of their

request.

6 applicants were chosen from the above criteria’s.

The Committee for the Seed Fund Grant had set criteria’s for the individual applicants or landowning unit’s submissions for the
second round under only one category, for Agriculture, and had itemized particularly the following requirements:

a) Individual Applicants to hold a lease with the Board
b) Individual Applicants to hold leases less than 4 years old
c) Individual Applicants to be landowners to their leased land
d) Individual Applicants to hold Agricultural leases
e) Landowners as a Mataqali, Tokatoka or Yavusa submitting projects for assistance must be using their own land if not leasing
f) Landowners as a Mataqali, Tokatoka or Yavusa submitting projects must indicate some sustainability of the project through the

involvement of their youth
g) Landowners as a Mataqali, Tokatoka or Yavusa submitting projects that is based on Agriculture

Process followed?

Assessment Submissions by LOU’s should be in a project paper format with the Grant application form filled and signed in
Submission conjunction to the requirements leaflet.

Project The project submitted should be on land that is owned by the LOU or that person or group that is submitting the
request.
The project should benefit the LOU members as a whole through employment, income and benefits now and in
the future.

Submission The submission should be sustainable in the long run, with women and the youth being involved in the project
Sustainable for that support in the future.
The submission/project to add value to the land holdings of the LOU.
Commitment
The submission should indicate some commitment from the LOU in some preliminary works having already been
Grant done to assist the project or initiative by the LOU.
• Company registered
• Business license in place
• Works already underway in farms, building etc.
• Bank accounts opened for Unit
• Development or Farming committee in place etc.
• Etc.

The request to be directly deposited to the LOU bank accounts through a DOT that is acceptable to the Board OR
to a third party for payment of items etc. for the project.

Anything else relevant?
The grant was endorsed a budget of $200,000.00 for 2017 which is being awarded but has also allocated $350,000.00 for the year 2018.

The Board with this grant and this allocated budget hopes to help a lot more I taukei’s in 2018. n

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STAFF UPDATE

1 New Appointment

LO Elenoa Raitamata

was appointed as Senior Legal Officer (West)
effective 26/02/2018.

2. Temporary Appointments:
• Mr Ili Naimila was recruited under the North West Region effective 01/02/2018;
• Mr Emosi Baledrokadroka recruited under the Central & Eastern Region effective 05/02/2018.

3. Industrial Attachments:
The following officers were recruited under the Industrial Attachment Scheme:
• Ms Verenaisi Tuidraki under the North West Region effective 31/01/2018;
• Ms Piniana Caginidaveta under the Tourism Department in Suva effective 02/02/2018;
• Ms Miriama Saucoko under the Northern Region effective 19/02/2018;
• Ms Mali Ralowaivalu under the Central & Eastern Region effective 19/02/2018;
• Ms Maraia Dokonivalu under the South West Region effective 19/02/2018.

We congratulate the above officers on their appointments and please render your usual support.

4. Resignations:
The following staff has resigned from the Boards services effective 23/02/2018:

1. EO/Tourism Joeli Varo
2. LO/SW Iva Suveinakama

We wish both officers well on their future endeavors.

5. Summary Dismissal:
Risk Officer Paula Mudunaivalu Savai was summarily dismissed from the Board services on 02/02/2018.

HUMAN CAPITAL OFFICER,
MERE WONG

HCO Wong was nominated by the Manager HCM for showing consistent “can do”
attitude. Mrs Wong has shown great commitment and this was evident through her
professional and positive approach towards her work. She was therefore commended for
her dedication and for always upholding the TLTB Corporate Values.

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