Chair of the 14th Pacific Community Conference, Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala of Tonga, has confirmed that Dr. Paula Vivili will take on the role of Director-General of the Pacific Community (SPC). This announcement was made during the closing session of the conference held in Nuku’alofa, Tonga.
Dr. Vivili is set to become the 23rd Director-General of SPC and marks a notable milestone as the first Tongan to lead the organization. His appointment comes at a crucial time when there is an increasing focus on building resilience and ensuring a just transition for Pacific communities amidst the escalating threats posed by climate change.
In his new capacity, Dr. Vivili expressed his strong commitment to serving the Pacific people, stating, “It is an honour and a privilege to be given the trust of the members to serve the Pacific Community as Director-General.” He looks forward to collaborating with member states, partners, and the skilled SPC staff to enhance the organization’s vision and effectiveness, focusing on consultation and collective decision-making.
Dr. Vivili has an extensive background in public health and has served SPC as Deputy Director General for Science and Capability for five years, following a six-year period as Director of the Public Health Division. His prior experience also includes nearly two decades with the Ministry of Health in Tonga.
Outgoing Director-General Dr. Stuart Minchin, who departs to lead the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, expressed confidence in Dr. Vivili’s capacity to further SPC’s mission, emphasizing the significance of the organization in advancing Pacific community goals based on shared values.
Dr. Vivili holds qualifications in Human Nutrition, Medicine, Ophthalmology, and International Public Health from esteemed institutions, and he will officially begin his role as Director-General in November 2025, succeeding Minchin who has served since 2020.
Overall, this leadership transition represents a hopeful step towards enhanced collaboration and resilience in the Pacific region. With Dr. Vivili at the helm, there is optimism that SPC will successfully address the pressing challenges faced by Pacific communities, further fostering regional development and environmental sustainability.