Fiji’s 55th Independence Anniversary was celebrated with great enthusiasm and unity as six Cabinet ministers connected with Fijian communities around the world for Fiji Day events. The celebrations highlighted the importance of leadership and innovation, especially among the youth of Fiji, as emphasized by Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh in Geelong, Melbourne. He encouraged young Fijians to embrace their heritage and strive for a brighter future, stating, “To our young people, this is your moment… Dream big, serve faithfully, and let your generation be the bridge that connects Fiji’s past to its future.”
In South Australia’s Limestone Coast, Minister for Information Lynda Tabuya acknowledged the contributions of Fijian and Pacific workers under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme, assuring them that they are “ambassadors of Fiji.” Their dedication and hard work, she noted, foster pride in the Fijian identity as they represent the values of respect, humility, and service.
The celebrations extended to Auckland, New Zealand, where Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran praised the Fijian diaspora for preserving their connection to their homeland. She referred to the celebration as a “Emerald Jubilee,” emphasizing themes of unity, resilience, and collective progress. Kiran highlighted the government’s focus on rebuilding essential infrastructure through the new National Development Plan, ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
Minister for Justice and Acting Attorney-General Siromi Turaga also participated in the festivities in Wellington, sharing greetings from Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, and reminding attendees of the blessings and pride inherent in their Fijian identity. “The saying ‘You can take a Fijian out of Fiji, but not Fiji out of a Fijian’ truly captures the pride and belonging reflected here today,” he said.
Additionally, in Jerusalem, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka celebrated Fiji Day at the Fiji Embassy while attending the Feast of Tabernacle. The Prime Minister was also a guest at the Fiji Day celebrations in Liverpool, Australia, where Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifireimi Vasu and Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa joined the festivities, reinforcing the spirit of community and engagement among Fijians abroad.
This year’s Independence Day not only served to reconnect Fijians across the globe but also to foster a sense of hope and direction for the future, with leaders emphasizing the importance of unity and proactive engagement in rebuilding and progressing as a nation.