In the mid-20th century, Lautoka earned the title “Sugar City” of Fiji following the establishment of the Lautoka Sugar Mill in 1903, which became a beacon of economic opportunity. This flourishing industry attracted migrants from across the nation, including Salanieta Vasekai from Nalawa, Ra, who moved to Lautoka in the early 1970s for a brighter future.
After marrying and starting a family, Ms. Vasekai sought a permanent home on the outskirts of Drasa and settled into a community built around sugar cane farming. Determined to create stability for her family, she and her neighbors approached the landowners of Naviyago Village for permission to construct their homes. This collective effort led to the establishment of Vadraiyawasewa Village, which now boasts over 40 households.
Her son, Kolinio Nasilokia, shared that Ms. Vasekai and seven others sought the blessings of Ratu Kini Cokanasiga, the chief of Naviyago at the time. He praised Ratu Kini for his humility and commitment to treating everyone equally. This moment of acceptance marked a pivotal transition for the newcomers, transforming them from wanderers into a settled community.
In keeping with the iTaukei tradition of kerekere, or formal request, the elders were graciously welcomed by Ratu Kini, who empathized with their challenges and permitted them to settle on ancestral land. This act, known as veivakatalei, strengthened the bond between the residents of Vadraiyawasewa and the vanua of Naviyago. Under Ratu Kini’s guidance, the principles of faith and unity have been upheld within the community for many years.
The name Vadraiyawasewa reflects the connection between the two communities, with “sewa” meaning “little” in the Ba dialect, denoting a smaller version of Vadraiyawa. Today, Vadraiyawasewa functions as a satellite community of Lautoka while maintaining its distinct identity as a “Ra village in the West.”
This settlement illustrates the historical migrations that have shaped Fiji’s urban landscape, highlighting the generosity of traditional landowners in Naviyago who supported fellow iTaukei in their pursuit of progress. The legacy of leaders like Ratu Kini and the resilience of settlers like Salanieta Vasekai continue to resonate with descendants who proudly claim this region as their home.
Reflecting on the community’s journey over the past four decades and the recent passing of his mother, Mr. Nasilokia expressed immense pride in the village that thrives on faith and family values. He recognized the enduring connections to Naviyago and the foundational role played by their elders for future generations, affirming a commitment to their heritage while nurturing growth and unity both within Fiji and beyond.