In a milestone ceremony over the weekend, the Tawatana community of Makira has formally handed over a land to the Hanuato’o Diocese of Makira for the construction of its Parish headquarter.
For years the Diocese had been longing and scouting for a land to build its West Arosi Parish headquarter.
Several propose lands have been secured, but could not be developed due to dispute.
Its was not until Tawatana community stepped in and negotiated with the land owners for a site.
The successfully negotiation led to the formal signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Sunday 23 November 2025 where the Hanuato’o Diocesan Bishop and his travelled over to Tawatana village to witness the formal hand over of that land to the Church.
The ceremony featured the signing of the MOU between the landowners and the Anglican church and formal handing over.
During the event the Church also presented to the landowners local foods, pigs, red traditional money and some modern cash to affirm the understanding.
The formal signing and handing over of the land has been described as a great achievement for the Anglican Church in Makira because it has been one of their wish.
Nesta Kata signed the MOU on behalf of the immediate family of Micheal Ngaraediri.
Bishop Arthur Abui who signed on behalf of the Church acknowledged the landowners for willingly offered their land.
By Stephen Taro
Tawatana Community
