The Fiji Rugby Football Union’s newly appointed board is navigating significant challenges as it embarks on reshaping its governance and operational strategies, according to acting CEO Koli Sewabu. In remarks following the General Assembly, Sewabu highlighted that much of 2025 was dedicated to resolving legacy issues and acclimating to the revised governance framework.
Sewabu pointed out that the current board inherited numerous pre-existing agreements, necessitating a careful balance between honoring these commitments and familiarizing themselves with the new administrative structure. “There were already agreements in place prior to our leadership taking over. We needed to respect those agreements while adapting to how Fiji Rugby now operates,” he stated.
One of the most pressing problems has been compliance, as many unions have struggled to meet the necessary requirements. Sewabu noted, “There were game management issues, and many unions were not fully compliant this year. We faced a dilemma since enforcing strict measures could lead to fewer teams participating in our competitions, which prompted us to seek innovative solutions to collaborate with our unions.”
Additional challenges included issues with player registration and the absence of a comprehensive player database which have hampered efficient operations. Sewabu recognized the urgency in developing a robust database over the coming years to improve pathways in primary, secondary, club, and provincial rugby.
Furthermore, he pointed out that Fiji Rugby has historically lacked a fully endorsed strategic plan, leading to inconsistent management practices across various areas. The organization held a symposium earlier this year to engage stakeholders in developing a new strategy, which is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks. “The objective is to start 2026 with a clearer vision and objectives that will guide us for the next decade,” Sewabu said.
With a newfound focus on strategic planning and compliance, the Fiji Rugby Football Union is poised to address its challenges head-on, fostering a more structured and unified approach towards achieving its long-term goals. The ongoing commitment to strengthening operational pathways demonstrates a willingness to adapt and build a resilient future for rugby in Fiji.