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Peni Sikivou Named Fiji’s New Planning and Statistics Chief
Fiji appoints Peni Sikivou as permanent secretary for National Planning, Development, and Statistics, a move aimed at strengthening leadership in core public services. With more than 30 years in government and regional work, Sikivou brings deep expertise in economic planning, project delivery, and data-driven policy.
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Fiji Market Vendor: A Single Mother’s Drive for Education
Before sunrise, Sulita Naibita steadies her market stall, turning daily effort into a lifeline for her family. A devoted single mother from Nararavou Village, she balances hard work with hopeful dreams for her daughter’s future, becoming a quiet beacon of resilience in her community.
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Fiji’s Mobile Wallet Surge Sets Sights on $3 Billion
Fiji’s mobile wallet scene is accelerating fast, with payments heading toward $3 billion and around 50 million transactions by year-end. Interoperable bank transfers and QR-code payments are unlocking broader financial access, signaling a new era for the digital economy across the islands.
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Fiji delays back-to-school aid to curb misuse as price checks loom
A major shift in back-to-school support is on the way as the ministry delays the financial aid, aiming to ensure funds are used for education essentials. With looming price pressures and new monitoring measures, this move targets stronger school-readiness and wiser budgeting for families.
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Olivia Dean Announces 2026 North American Tour After Grammy Nomination
Rising star Olivia Dean has her first Grammy nomination and a bold 2026 North American tour on the horizon, including a marquee New York show. With spring European dates and a buzzworthy SNL moment, her Art of Loving era is just warming up.
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Herbert Brothers Clash in Chargers-Jaguars Showdown
Two brothers, one field, a high-stakes AFC showdown. The Chargers head to Jacksonville for a game that doubles as a personal duel as Justin Herbert faces off against his brother Patrick, now a Jaguar. With playoff implications across the conference on the line, this matchup promises heat, pride, and plenty of storylines.
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Joy Behar Out with Foot Injury; Whoopi Goldberg Hints at The View Return
Joy Behar’s absence from The View has fans buzzing, but Whoopi Goldberg just offered a hopeful update—Behar is sidelined by a foot injury and could be back soon. The longtime co-host’s presence has been a staple since the show’s early days, making this pause felt by many. As the on-screen chemistry continues to shine, anticipation…
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JPMorgan bets on Berlin as Chase prepares Germany retail bank launch
JPMorgan bets big on Berlin, opening a new headquarters as it gears up to launch the Chase digital retail bank in Germany next year. A bold step in its European expansion, signaling confidence in a fast-moving market.
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Micronesia Unveils Ambitious NDC 3.0 and Methane Roadmap at COP30
Micronesia unveils a bold new climate plan, pairing its updated NDC with a dedicated methane roadmap at COP30. The move underscores renewable-energy ambitions, ecosystem stewardship, and strengthened regional cooperation—turning commitment into action for island resilience. A milestone for Pacific climate leadership with implications for the wider region.
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Chimpanzee on the loose at Indianapolis Zoo prompts investigation
An unexpected incident at a local zoo has guests sheltering in place as a chimpanzee reportedly escapes its enclosure. Officials are keeping details tight, leaving many questions about what happened and what it means for zoo safety.
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COP30: Pacific Islands Push Direct Climate Finance for Vulnerable Communities
Pacific communities are sounding an urgent warning as climate impacts intensify, threatening homes and livelihoods. New, locally driven funding initiatives promise faster relief for those most affected—hinting at a pivotal shift toward resilience amid mounting pressures.
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Pacific Human Rights at Stake as Climate Crisis Demands Stronger Institutions
Leaders and experts across the Asia Pacific gathered to chart a bold, collective path for human rights in a time of climate-driven challenges. A call to strengthen national human rights institutions, safeguard the most vulnerable, and turn global commitments into concrete local actions. With climate displacement already on the horizon for Pacific communities, the conversation…
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Dollar General and Kathy Ireland Spark Student Reading in Tennessee
A major literacy boost lands in Old Hickory as Dollar General teams with Kathy Ireland to fund a flexible Reading Revolution grant for Andrew Jackson Elementary. The gift supports new books, tech tools, and inviting reading spaces—sparking a lifelong love of reading and a stronger sense of community literacy.
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Tributes Pour In as Tennessee Mourns Representative Jeff Burkhart
Montgomery County is remembering a devoted public servant whose career spanned from the Clarksville Fire Department to the State House. Colleagues across party lines speak of his humility, dedication, and the lasting impact of a life lived in service to the community.
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Messi and De Paul Lead Argentina’s 24-Man Squad for Angola Friendly
Scaloni unveils a 24-man Argentina squad for the November 14 friendly against Angola, headlined by Messi and De Paul. The mix includes two fresh faces while most Primera Division players are absent due to the crowded domestic schedule, and Dibu Martínez is left out as Inter Miami pursues the playoffs.
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Morocco U17 Targets High-Intensity Clash With United States in World Cup Knockout
Morocco’s U17s are banking on high‑intensity football as they face the United States in the FIFA U17 World Cup knockout round. The squad aims to press early and carry the momentum from their latest display into a pivotal clash. A bold step forward in their push to advance on the world stage.
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Olivia Dean Sets Sights on North America with 14-City Tour
Olivia Dean is turning up the heat with a major North American tour behind her acclaimed new album, The Art of Loving. A marquee Toronto date and a 14-city run across the continent promise a season of unforgettable live moments.
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Indonesia Urges Pacific Unity Through Culture and Creativity
An oceanic bridge of culture could redefine growth across the Pacific. Through shared storytelling, crafts, and maritime heritage, a bold collaboration aims to safeguard heritage and unlock creative economies—before climate risks erode it all.
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Pacific Disability Forum Pushes for Equal Voice in 2050 Resilience Strategy
Across the Blue Pacific, 1.7 million people with disabilities are demanding a seat at the resilience table—shifting from beneficiaries to co-designers of the region’s 2050 strategy. Equity and inclusive governance light the way, even as data gaps, funding shortages, and coordination hurdles test progress. Their message: resilience must reflect every voice to truly unite communities.
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Fiji Launches Bold Trade Drive at Shanghai CIIE to Tap China’s Market
Fiji is making a strategic push in Shanghai, spotlighting its locally produced goods at a major expo and pursuing new routes to the vast Chinese market. The effort blends market insights, brand visibility, and cultural exchange to unlock fresh trade and investment opportunities on the horizon.
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Vodafone Sugar Festival: Young Contestant Highlights Parenting and Youth Empowerment
Family, tradition, and the next generation take the spotlight at the Vodafone Sugar Festival. Twenty-year-old contestant Michelle Lambert shares heartfelt thoughts on parental guidance and the empowering role of young women, hinting at a celebration that blends culture with meaningful change. A teaser of leadership, pride, and community hope.