The revival of Kadavu Rugby has brought about remarkable changes on the island, especially following the successful Vueti Kadavu Youth Festival organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, shared his pride in Parliament, noting that a small community festival initiated in December 2023 has transformed into a significant movement fostering unity, pride, and empowerment both on and off the rugby field.
Saukuru highlighted that the resurgence of Kadavu Rugby has not only reactivated the once-dormant Kadavu Rugby Union but also instilled a renewed sense of purpose among local youth, emphasizing core values such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. Since its revival, Kadavu Rugby has celebrated historic milestones, including the women’s team’s triumph at the Royal Ranadi Cup in 2024 and the men’s team clinching the Vodafone Vanua Championship in 2025, which earned them promotion to the Skipper Cup for the 2026 season.
These achievements go beyond sports; they represent a social and cultural revival for the province. The festival successfully engaged over 1,000 young people from 52 clubs across Kadavu, promoting not just athleticism but also agribusiness, culture, and leadership skills. The initiative has revitalized the Kadavu Youth Council and encouraged a shift from illicit activities towards sustainable agricultural practices, as evidenced by a notable 60 percent reduction in marijuana-related cases reported by police since the event, underscoring its positive impact that extends far beyond sports.
Saukuru emphasized the transformative power of the Vueti Kadavu Youth Festival, asserting that collaboration among youth, community, and government creates a conducive environment for genuine change, both in rugby and the broader society.
Kadavu Rugby is emerging as a symbol of hope and resilience within the Fijian rugby landscape. With strong community backing and an emphasis on nurturing local talent, the teams are poised for continued success and bright prospects ahead. This optimistic narrative resonates with previous achievements, such as the men’s team’s victory in the Vanua Cup and ongoing successes of the women’s team. Initiatives leveraging rugby as a catalyst for social change present a promising outlook for both Kadavu and the future of Fijian rugby as a whole.