TLTB TAKES EMPOWERMENT MESSAGE TO TIKINA NALOTO IN BA

CEO Mr. Solomone Nata led a community consultation in the tikina of Naloto, covering the villages of Toge, Balevuto, and Nadrugu to explain the Board’s new business initiatives and wealth-building strategies for the iTaukei landowners.

Addressing the villagers Mr Nata emphasized that “the time has come for landowners not just to lease their land, but to invest in it, manage it, and grow from it.” He outlined how TLTB’s new commercial arm, Qelemaroroi Holdings Pte Ltd, will work to create sustainable income through land development, financing, and joint ventures — all with landowners at the heart of the decision-making.

In each village, the consultation focused on bridging the poverty gap by transforming land into a tool for economic security. CEO Nata stressed the importance of moving from passive leasing to active landowner participation, encouraging each Mataqali to consider registering trusts or cooperatives or even companies to access the Taukei Development Fund Facility (TDFF).

The villagers received the message with enthusiasm, with many requesting follow-up sessions on business registration, financial literacy, and lease renewal policies.

“This is the most practical vision we’ve heard,” said one elder in Balevuto. “We’re ready to use our land for more than just survival — we want growth.”

Mr Nata reaffirmed that TLTB’s role has evolved — from administering leases to becoming a partner in progress.