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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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…

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.

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.

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.

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.