The Port Havannah Marina Project in North Efate is moving forward following a groundbreaking ceremony this week, but chiefs from the Farealoveti Council say they were not consulted and are demanding transparency from the developer and the government.
The project, which is being developed by Goodies Limited, aims to boost marine tourism by accommodating over 200 yachts and establishing a tourism marina along with residential subdivisions.
In response to public concerns, Goodies Limited Director, Tal Milfirer, told VBTC News that the company followed every legal process required to convert the lease from agricultural to commercial use.
“When we decided on the project, we applied to the Land Management and Planning Committee (LMPC) for the lease conversion. After receiving approval, we publicly announced the change with signage and began securing all required development permits,” Mr. Milfirer said.
He explained the company went on to obtain approvals from the Department of Geology and Mines, Department of Water, the Council of Ministers, and the Department of Environment, with up to six different permits covering the project’s components.
Principal Environmental Impact Assessment Officer, Trevor Muerifar, confirmed that the Department of Environment was involved in the process and conducted a site assessment.
“The plan was finalized to identify which plots are commercial and which are residential. The environmental application was reviewed in coordination with other government agencies, and the site went through the EA process,” Muerifar said.
However, traditional leaders say they were left out of the consultation process.
Speaking during a meeting held on Lelepa Island, Chairman of the Farealoveti Council of Chiefs, Chief Reuben Natematewia, said the council was unaware the land lease had changed from agricultural to commercial use and had not seen any Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report.
“Firstly, we were not present at the ceremony. Secondly, we have not seen the EIA report. Thirdly, the whole community—from chiefs to youth—needs proper consultation so everyone understands who benefits. Lastly, we would like to see the development plans, but none have been shown to us,” Chief Reuben said.
The Director General of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Leith Veremaito, acknowledged that community awareness is important and should be the responsibility of the developer.
“As I understand, discussions did take place, although perhaps not in full detail. The lease change was legal, and the Ministry of Lands is responsible for guiding this process,” Mr. Veremaito said.
He added that the project would bring economic opportunities, especially through jobs for locals, and assured that environmental compliance falls under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment.
Chief Kalmarata Kalsev, a landowner in the area, voiced support for the development, noting that it would create employment for young people, women, and families in the communities around Havannah Harbour.
“This project will bring big benefits to every community nearby—it will create jobs for youths, women, and give people the chance to start small businesses,” Chief Kalmarata said.
The Farealoveti Council of Chiefs represents traditional leaders from Siviri to Mangaliliu, including the offshore islands of Lelepa and Moso.
