The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) has gathered for its biannual forum at the Vale ni Bose in Suva, uniting traditional leaders from across Fiji and Rotuma. This important two-day meeting centers on pivotal themes such as cultural preservation, community resilience, and the evolving role of indigenous leadership in shaping the country’s future.
This session, taking place today and Thursday, is the first of the year for the GCC, following their previous assembly in November 2025. As the foremost guardians of iTaukei cultural heritage and authority, the council will assess the progress made by its sub-committees and determine strategic priorities for the future.
Leaders will receive crucial updates on various sectors, including education, cultural revitalization, community resilience, and engagement with stakeholders. During the past forum, the GCC placed significant emphasis on enhancing resilience within villages, encouraging communities to invest development funds towards sustainable social and economic initiatives. This focus on empowerment and sustainability is anticipated to remain a key theme as leaders review current implementation efforts and explore further strategies to assist rural communities.
The GCC has also broadened its outreach efforts beyond traditional matters. Earlier this month, Chairperson Ratu Viliame Seruvakula highlighted the importance of forging stronger partnerships with church leaders and other stakeholders to address emerging social issues, particularly the escalating effects of illicit drug use within communities.
As conversations unfold at Vale ni Bose, the chiefs are dedicated to reinforcing indigenous heritage, improving community wellbeing, and making a positive contribution to the broader development agenda of Fiji. This commitment to integrating traditional leadership with contemporary governance approaches reflects a hopeful vision for a more inclusive and resilient future for all Fijians.