Kelera Ditaiki 
[File Photo]
The first bamboo park established in Namosi is proving to be a major advantage for the mataqali of Namara, who have capitalised on their abundant natural resources to develop what is believed to be Fiji’s first initiative of its kind.
Resident from Namosi, Tomasi Vakadranu says, the community has formed a trust to ensure accountability and transparency in managing the project, while government support has assisted in setting up facilities within the park.
“The park has shown us the value of what we already have. These resources were always here – we just needed to learn how to use them to benefit our community.”
The development has since become a significant source of income for residents, contributing to local livelihoods and economic activity.
Interest in the park is also growing beyond the province. Representatives from the European High Commission have visited for discussions, and local creative group VT1S has used the site as a filming location.
Vakadranu says the project is not only generating revenue but also positioning the highlands as a destination for sightseeing and eco-tourism.
Members of the mataqali have begun discussions and planning to expand the initiative over the next five years, with hopes of further strengthening community benefits and sustainable development opportunities.
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