STATEMENT BY THE MINISTER FOR FISHERIES AND FORESTRY ON THE FIRE INCIDENT AT NAQARA PINE SCHEME, ONO, KADAVU

The Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry is aware of a fire incident that occurred on Monday, 22nd September 2025, within the Naqara Pine Scheme on Ono Island, Kadavu. The fire was successfully contained on Wednesday, 24th September, through the swift and coordinated response of the Naqara villagers and local leaders.
 
The Ministry is thankful that no lives were lost, and that Naqara Village and its school remained safe from the blaze. Approximately 90 hectares of pine stands earmarked for harvest in the coming months were affected. The Fiji Pine Trust has confirmed preliminary damage estimates, and further detailed assessments will be undertaken to determine the extent of losses and opportunities for salvage operations.
 
I acknowledge with appreciation the efforts of the local community in working tirelessly to prevent the spread of the fire, as well as the prompt intervention of local authorities, including the Fiji Police Force, who have already taken action in relation to the suspected cause of the fire.
 
The Ministry has mobilized an assessment team, comprising Forestry Operations staff and Fiji Pine Trust officers, who will travel to Ono to conduct a thorough ground assessment. Their key tasks will include mapping the affected pine blocks, identifying recoverable logs, and updating the pine inventory to guide recovery and continuity of operations.
 
The Government remains committed to supporting the people of Kadavu and ensuring the sustainability of pine operations for community livelihood and national economic contribution.
 
I assure the people of Kadavu that the Ministry will work closely with Fiji Pine Trust, the affected community, and relevant stakeholders to ensure that appropriate recovery measures are taken and lessons are learned to strengthen fire prevention strategies in the future.
 
Hon. Minister for Fisheries and Forestry
25 September 2025