"E vaka e vakatukakaso na sasalu ni veitiritiri” : exploring indigenous perspectives on socio-economic change and development : a case study of Draubuta and Nabudrau villages in the Rewa Delta : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for Master of International Development in School of People, Environment and Planning at Massey University, Palmerston North, Manawatu, New Zealand
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Date
2024
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Massey University
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Abstract
This study looks at how local communities in Fiji are affected by long-term socioeconomic developments. It delves into the role of climate change as a primary driver of change, but it also pays particular attention to the ways local people see the effects of colonialism, globalization, and westernization, all of which have a significant role in the shifts and swift transformation of a local community. With the Vanua Framework serving as the underlying paradigm, the study is qualitative in nature. To capture the impact of these changes, semi-structured interviews, ‘talanoa’ and photovoice were used. The results show the value of Indigenous knowledge and wisdom as it guides their actions and response to change and development. By prioritizing the Indigenous ways of knowing, there are sustainable practices that promote interconnectedness and relational knowledge. The study contributes to a deeper understanding of how local people navigate and respond to the complexities of modernity, climate change and development. It calls for sustainable development that is aligned to Indigenous knowledge, perceptions and values.