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Volume I · Issue 1 · Mon 2 – Sat 7 March 2026 · Published Sunday 8 March 2026
Monday 2 – Saturday 7 March 2026 · Published Sunday 8 March 2026
Heavenly Father, Lord of all creation,
on this International Women's Day, we lift up Fiji and all her people to You.
We give thanks that the floodwaters are receding and the warnings have been lifted. We pray for every family still cleaning up the damage — in Ba, Nadi, Tavua, Rakiraki, and Sigatoka. May the rebuilding of homes, farms, and livelihoods be swift, and may no family be left to face that recovery alone.
Today, on International Women's Day, we honour the women of Fiji — the mothers, the farmers, the nurses, the journalists, the lawyers, the fisherfolk, and the faith leaders. We pray for the full equality, safety, and dignity of every woman and girl in these islands. Lord, raise up those who speak for the voiceless, and give courage to every woman breaking barriers in trade, construction, leadership, and sport. May justice roll down for all who have been silenced, harmed, or overlooked.
We continue to pray for the family of Police Constable Peniasi Racagi and for the woman whose body was found in the Wainibuku River. We pray that truth will come to light in every courtroom, and that justice — not politics — will govern every institution, from the Corrections Service to the courts that hold public figures to account. Lord, let integrity be the hallmark of leadership in Fiji.
We cry out for our children being consumed by the drug crisis and for those suffering with HIV. Give strength to every frontline worker, teacher, parent, pastor, and counsellor fighting this battle daily. May Fiji find the resources, the resolve, and the compassion to turn this tide.
We rejoice this week in the courage of our Fiji 7s men, opening their Vancouver campaign with a powerful win over England — and the historic moment of Waisea Nacuqu scoring his 100th series try. May sport continue to unite and inspire this nation. And may the many voices, cultures, and faiths of Fiji — iTaukei, Indo-Fijian, Rotuman, and all others — continue to find strength in each other.
May Your face shine upon Fiji, O Lord.
May justice, truth, and compassion be the pillars of this nation.
In all things, let Your will be done — in these islands, as it is in heaven.
Amen. · आमीन। · Ameen.
Faith · Community · Values
Fiji Sun
A faith initiative is rolling out across Fiji this season, with youth workshops planned at 37 parishes and villages. The program aims to train parish youth leaders to carry awareness messages into their communities, reinforcing the Church's active engagement with the younger generation at the grassroots level.
Faith OutreachFiji Times
The Senior Pastor of CMF International Church, Reverend Manasa Kolivuso, has publicly called on fathers across Fiji to know their roles within the family and lead by example. The message comes as flooding and social pressures continue to test households, particularly in the Western Division.
Church LeadershipFiji Times — Letters
The Hindu community across Fiji and worldwide celebrated Holi, the festival of colours, on March 4. The joyful observance brought together families and communities during an otherwise challenging week marked by widespread flooding in the Western Division.
Hindu FaithFijiLive / Fiji Global News
TISI Sangam, Andhra, Sanatan Dharam, and the Fiji Muslim League have been commended for their consistent dedication and organisational skills in running their annual conventions. These events, typically held during the Easter season, continue to play a major role in preserving cultural and religious identity in Fiji.
Multi-faithPublic Health · Wellbeing · Medical Services
FijiVillage / Fiji Times
Health authorities are raising urgent alarms as adults and children are being observed swimming in flooded creeks, drains, and compounds — and jumping off bridges into swollen rivers. Leptospirosis, a water-borne disease spread through contaminated floodwater, has already claimed lives in previous flood events. Officials warn the reckless behaviour puts lives at serious risk.
Public Health AlertFijiVillage
Healthcare services at the Raiwaqa Health Centre are being temporarily relocated to the LICI Courts near the Vodafone Arena starting Monday to allow the Ministry of Health to carry out much-needed maintenance works on the facility.
Health ServicesFBC News
Fiji's Corrections Services has acknowledged that its correctional facilities currently lack the necessary infrastructure to properly address the health needs of inmates. The admission has raised concerns about the welfare of those in the corrections system and puts further pressure on the justice sector taskforce reviewing social and criminal challenges.
Institutional HealthFiji Sun
The National Fire Authority's Acting CEO Joel Israel has issued a stark reminder of the dangers of electrical fires after a recent incident quickly escalated during sleeping hours. The warning urges households to conduct regular checks on electrical fittings and appliances, especially in the current wet weather season.
Public SafetyTrade · Finance · Business · Development
FBC News
The Fijian Government is closely monitoring national fuel supply levels amid rising tensions in the Middle East that have sparked global concerns about oil shortages. FBC News confirmed authorities are actively tracking the situation to ensure Fiji's fuel imports are not disrupted. The concern comes just days after the FCCC's March 1 price adjustment, which had already seen LPG prices rise due to increased global Butane Contract Prices. Economists warn that sustained geopolitical disruption could raise fuel costs further, putting pressure on Fiji's transport, agriculture, and fishing sectors — all of which are still recovering from Cyclone Urmil's impact.
Energy SecurityFiji Sun
The Fiji Revenue and Customs Service has confirmed the country's removal from the European Union's tax blacklist, marking a significant achievement in international tax compliance. The development is expected to strengthen investor confidence and open doors to greater trade and financial cooperation with European partners.
Trade & TaxFiji Sun
Motorists saw some relief as the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission announced lower regulated prices for unleaded petrol, premix, kerosene, and diesel from March 1. However, LPG prices rose due to a 7.22 per cent increase in the global Butane Contract Price, driven by winter demand and supply tightening in Asia-Pacific markets.
Consumer PricesFiji Times
The Women Entrepreneurs Business Council is counting down to its WIN Convention 2026 under the theme "Give to Gain: Investing in Women, Transform Our Future." Keynote speaker Bhavana Chary Samel of TotalEnergies Fiji will be joined by Reserve Bank chief manager Caroline Waqabaca and tech entrepreneur Dipti Sharma, spotlighting women's role in driving economic transformation.
Business & EmpowermentFiji Global News
Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel has announced reforms to speed up post-disaster needs assessments and unlock external aid more quickly. The changes aim to implement sector-specific disaster risk finance plans so that funds can flow rapidly to priority areas for infrastructure, health, and education restoration after climate events.
Climate FinanceFijiVillage
An alarming breakdown of Lami Town Council's budget has been revealed, showing that 78 per cent of its total budget is consumed by staff salaries and wages. The figure has raised questions about the council's capacity to deliver meaningful community services and infrastructure development for residents.
Local Government FinanceGovernment · Parliament · Governance
FBC News / FijiVillage
The Judicial Services Commission failed to reach quorum at its scheduled meeting in Suva this week, leaving the FICAC Commissioner dispute unresolved. President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu confirmed he is still awaiting the JSC's formal response. Reports suggest the President has asked the JSC to include a severance payout for Commissioner Rokoika and an opportunity for her to reapply — a move that has raised constitutional eyebrows, given that the JSC had already determined she was not legally appointed. The standoff continues to test the boundaries of executive and judicial authority in Fiji.
Constitutional CrisisFBC News
The Social Democratic Liberal Party is actively seeking individuals to contest the 2026 general election under its banner. The move signals the party is beginning its campaign preparations well in advance, aiming to rebuild its parliamentary presence in the upcoming national poll.
Elections 2026Fiji Times / FijiLive
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has moved to ease growing concerns about rising ethno-nationalism in Fiji, publicly promising that the rights of all communities are protected under his government. The assurance comes amid ongoing national conversations about constitutional reform and social cohesion.
PM StatementFiji Global News
Opposition leader Mahendra Chaudhry has sharply criticised the government's Referendum Bill, calling it unconstitutional and warning that its provisions risk silencing public debate and infringing on fundamental freedoms. The Bill remains a flashpoint in the current parliamentary session.
LegislationFiji Times
The Ministry of Employment has appealed to employers across Fiji to exercise compassion and flexibility as workers return from flood-affected areas. Permanent Secretary Maritino Nemani noted that while some workers may be unaffected, many are dealing with significant property and livelihood losses from the recent severe weather.
Labour PolicyRugby · Football · Athletics · Oceania
FijiVillage / Fiji Times
The Fiji Airways men's 7s team opened the Vancouver 7s in stunning fashion, defeating England 27–12 at BC Place. Star speedster Vuiviwa Naduvalo scored in the first minute, setting the tone for a dominant display. Vice-captain Waisea Nacuqu then wrote his name into history, scoring twice to bring his career HSBC SVNS Series try tally to a milestone 100 — a remarkable feat since his debut in 2014. Fiji, who lead the overall SVNS standings with 70 points, face Kenya and USA in their remaining pool matches today. The Fijiana women's side also take on USA and Canada at BC Place in their Vancouver campaign.
Vancouver 7s 2026FBC News
With the Vancouver 7s now underway, Fiji sit at the top of the HSBC SVNS men's standings with 70 points — four clear of South Africa (66) and eight ahead of New Zealand (62). Singapore champions Fiji have finished in the top three of every event this season. Coach Osea Kolinisau, who has Vuiviwa Naduvalo back from a concussion, warned it will not be easy at BC Place: "Every team is looking forward to this week — it's the last chance for teams to win a tournament in the final leg and everybody will come out hard." The New York 7s follows Vancouver in the final North American double-header before the end-of-season Championship Series.
SVNS StandingsFiji Sun
Five of Fiji's top athletes have been awarded prestigious Olympic Solidarity Scholarships by the International Olympic Committee as they begin their preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The scholarships provide funding and support for training and international competition experience.
Olympics 2028FijiLive
Extra Bula FC delivered a much-improved performance in the OFC Pro League Circuit 3, sharing a goalless draw with South Island United in Moorea. New Japanese signing Yuta Konagaya and defender Adam Supyk shared their thoughts on adjusting to the Fijian football environment as the club continues to build momentum in the regional competition.
Football / OFCFiji Sun
The Raiwaqa Youth Volleyball Association has launched its Open Interlane competition at Lomani Koro Court, part of a broader effort to reconnect with and strengthen ties to the Fiji Volleyball Federation. The initiative aims to grow youth participation in volleyball across the Central Division.
VolleyballFiji Global News
Fiji's iconic Marist 7s rugby tournament is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a striking new logo and the theme "Golden Roots, Global Wings." The milestone edition promises to celebrate five decades of the tournament's contribution to rugby development in Fiji and its growing international reach.
Rugby HeritageCourts · Law Enforcement · Justice
Fiji Sun
Two men aged 42 and 20, both from Qauia, Lami, will appear before the Suva Magistrates Court on March 5 charged with the alleged murder of Police Constable 8012 Peniasi Racagi. Constable Racagi's body was discovered near the beach behind the Lami Oceania Wesley Church in the early hours of February 22. Police allege the pair, along with another individual, aided and abetted in causing fatal injuries to the officer.
HomicideFijiVillage
Police are investigating the discovery of a woman's body in the Wainibuku River. Officers arrived at the scene following reports from bystanders who found the body. Authorities have not yet released further details as the investigation remains ongoing.
Death InvestigationFiji Sun
Shazran Abdul Lateef was found guilty this week of possessing 9.5 grams of methamphetamine and 3.5 grams of marijuana. The offence under Fiji's Crimes Act carries a maximum penalty of 15 years' imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for the following Monday, as drug-related prosecutions continue to dominate Fiji's court dockets.
Drug OffenceFijiVillage
A 24-year-old man who pleaded guilty to murdering his uncle out of jealousy in November last year has been sentenced to life imprisonment. The court heard that the accused asked his sister if she was having an affair with the deceased, before carrying out the fatal attack. The case highlights the ongoing challenge of family violence in Fiji.
Homicide / SentencingFiji Times / Fiji Sun / FijiVillage
Dr Jalesi Nakarawa has been formally dismissed as Fiji Corrections Service Commissioner after a three-judge tribunal found him guilty of nepotism and abuse of office. The tribunal — comprising Justices Daniel Goundar, Savenaca Banuve, and Dane Tuiqereqere — heard from more than 40 witnesses over several weeks before concluding that Dr Nakarawa had biasedly recruited his wife and stepsons, abused his authority over staff, and misused funds. The Office of the President issued the termination letter on February 26, 2026. Auta Moceisuva is now Acting Commissioner. Dr Nakarawa denied all wrongdoing, characterising the complaints as backlash against his reforms. Meanwhile, the Bainimarama health tender trial continues — with the court expected to rule on a key legal challenge in coming days.
AccountabilityFijiVillage
The Fiji Police Force has established a 24-hour dedicated call centre at Police Headquarters, allowing members of the public to report crime or share information at any time of day or night. The initiative is described as a step toward restoring public trust in policing, though community members have expressed hope it will be more responsive than existing station lines.
Law EnforcementNarcotics · Trafficking · Rehabilitation · Prevention
FijiVillage
Minister for Policing Ioane Naivalurua declared Fiji's illicit drug situation a national emergency at the National Talanoa Session on Responding to Illicit Drugs held at the RB Convention Centre in Lami. He revealed that 2,400 drug-related cases were recorded in 2025, with most offenders aged between 18 and 35. Major interceptions have confirmed Fiji's exposure to transnational trafficking networks, with methamphetamine ("ice") at the centre of the crisis. Five key principles for the way forward were outlined: honesty, practicality, accountability, protecting the next generation, and balance.
National EmergencyFiji Sun
The Permanent Secretary for Justice, Selina Kuruleca, warned this week that drug use has spread beyond secondary schools into Fiji's primary schools, with children being exploited as mules. The alarm was raised at the launch of a UNICEF and Japan-funded drug prevention project in Suva. Methamphetamine, commonly known as "ice," has flooded Fiji in recent years and is now reaching its youngest learners.
Children at RiskUNICEF Pacific / PINA
The Government of Japan and UNICEF signed a landmark four-year partnership on March 3 in Suva to shield over 160,000 Fijian children and adolescents from the escalating drug crisis. Funded at USD 5.48 million, the programme will support 10,000 at-risk youth and 300 children in conflict with the law. The Fiji Police Force recorded 2,446 cases of illicit drug activity between May 2024 and May 2025, including 50 cases involving children.
International AidFiji Times
Fiji's drug crisis landed on the front page of the Washington Post in early February, with a major investigation detailing how transnational criminal syndicates have turned Fiji into both a transit hub and a domestic drug market. The report described routine weekly meth deliveries to Suva squatter settlements and documented users as young as 10. International law enforcement, including INTERPOL's Project Blue Pacific, the Australian Federal Police, and NZ Police, are working with Fiji on supply disruption — but experts warn supply reduction alone cannot address the domestic harm already caused.
Global SpotlightLowy Institute / FBC News
A joint Fiji Police and Fiji Revenue and Customs Services operation seized 4.8 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine hidden in coffee packets at Nadi International Airport. Seven individuals were charged, including two members of the Counter Narcotics Bureau and the head of the FRCS intelligence unit. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu called for an urgent review of the CNB, acknowledging the disturbing depth of criminal infiltration into Fiji's own enforcement agencies.
Institutional CorruptionFiji Sun
The Acting Attorney-General has stated that detention must remain a measure of last resort when dealing with child drug offenders, pushing instead for rehabilitation, community-based interventions, and family support. The stance aligns with a broader government push to treat young people caught up in the drug crisis as victims rather than criminals, particularly where exploitation by adult networks is evident.
Justice & RehabilitationPublic Health Crisis · Prevention · Treatment · Awareness
Multiple Sources — Global Health Alert
Fiji has been identified as having one of the fastest-growing HIV epidemics globally. The government has formally declared an HIV outbreak. There were 1,583 new HIV cases reported in 2024, and 1,226 cases in just the first six months of 2025. A majority of new infections are among people aged 15 to 34, with a growing number of mothers transmitting the virus to their babies. Half of all new infections are directly linked to injecting drug use — primarily methamphetamine.
National OutbreakWashington Post / Detroit News
Health workers have documented a practice known as "bluetoothing" — where blood is withdrawn from an already-intoxicated drug user and injected into another person to share the high — as a major driver of HIV transmission in Fiji. A WHO and UNDP-commissioned assessment found that 50 per cent of people who inject drugs in Fiji shared a potentially contaminated syringe. A deep lack of drug education, combined with Fiji's communal culture, has contributed to unsafe needle use across communities.
Transmission RiskThe Conversation / Lowy Institute
Health experts warn that the stigma surrounding both HIV and drug use is preventing many people from seeking testing and treatment. Fiji's public hospitals and clinics are underfunded, understaffed, and lack modern equipment following years of neglect and a sustained exodus of health professionals. These gaps are particularly acute in drug rehabilitation, psychiatric care, and management of the complex health needs of people living with HIV. New Zealand has pledged ongoing funding to assist with health infrastructure improvements.
Health SystemUNAIDS / FBC News
UNAIDS Country Director for Fiji, Renata Ram, has warned that rising HIV infection rates in Fiji are tracking along the same drug shipment routes beginning to affect Tonga, Samoa, and the Solomon Islands — nations that are showing the early warning signs Fiji displayed in 2019. Without urgent regional action, the crisis risks spilling across the Pacific. Jason Mitchell, who leads Fiji's government HIV task force, stated that there is still "a long way to go before we see the end of this."
Regional WarningWashington Post / FijiVillage
The Survival Advocacy Network in Suva continues to serve as a critical safe haven and support centre for LGBTQ+ individuals, sex workers, and injecting drug users — all groups disproportionately affected by Fiji's twin meth and HIV crises. The organisation provides free HIV testing and harm reduction services, filling a significant gap left by under-resourced government health services.
Community SupportFiji Sun / FBC News
Health officials and development partners are urging the Fijian government to develop and fund a comprehensive national programme that integrates HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and rehabilitation with the broader response to methamphetamine addiction. Regional and global health organisations including UNAIDS and the WHO have been called upon to provide technical and financial support, while collaboration with INTERPOL and Pacific policing bodies continues on the supply disruption side.
Policy ResponseForecasts · Warnings · Cyclones · Climate · Fiji Met Service
RNZ Pacific / Fiji Met Service
Tropical Cyclone Urmil — a Category 2 system — passed southwest of Kadavu tracking southeast, and while it did not make direct landfall over Fiji, its associated heavy rain and strong winds caused major flooding across Viti Levu. Roads were closed, power poles downed, and EFL crews worked in dangerous conditions to restore electricity to affected homes and businesses across the Western and Central Divisions. The Nadi Weather Office confirmed Urmil has since exited Fiji's waters, moving into New Zealand waters, but heavy rain continued to affect Fiji due to an active trough of low pressure trailing the cyclone. Flash flood warnings remained in force across both main islands.
Tropical CycloneFiji Met Service (met.gov.fj)
Following Cyclone Urmil's departure, the Fiji Meteorological Service confirmed that an active trough of low pressure now lies over the group, bringing continued cloud, heavy showers, and thunderstorms. The forecast through to midnight Tuesday called for occasional to heavy rain with few thunderstorms over most places, moderate to fresh northwesterly winds, and rough seas. Rain was expected to gradually ease from Wednesday. Flash flood warnings remained in force for Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, with specific flood warnings and alerts for the Ba, Tavua, Yaqara, Nadi, Nawaka, and Nadroga river systems.
Official ForecastRNZ Pacific / Fiji Airports
The Fiji Government issued a public advisory urging travellers using Nadi International Airport to remain alert as heavy rainfall associated with Cyclone Urmil increased the risk of flash flooding and river flooding in the surrounding area. All passengers were strongly encouraged to stay in contact with their airlines for schedule updates. The airport remained open but operating under heightened weather monitoring, as conditions around the Nadi and Nawaka rivers deteriorated through the weekend.
Travel AlertFiji Met Service — TC Outlook 2025–26
The Fiji Meteorological Service's seasonal outlook projected four to five tropical cyclones for the RSMC Nadi area of responsibility between November 2025 and April 2026 — below the long-term average of seven. For the Fiji region specifically, near-normal activity was forecast, with around two cyclones expected to affect Fiji in an average season. The service warned, however, that tropical depressions that fall short of full cyclone intensity can still cause life-threatening heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding. Urmil has since proven that warning prescient, causing significant damage without a direct hit.
Seasonal OutlookReliefWeb / ECHO Daily Flash
The European Commission's Humanitarian Office flagged Fiji's severe weather and flood situation in its Daily Flash of March 3, 2026, activating monitoring protocols for a potential humanitarian response. International agencies with Pacific mandates are assessing the extent of displacement, infrastructure damage, and food security impacts — particularly in the Western Division. The alert reinforces the need for Fiji's own domestic disaster finance reforms to accelerate, so that post-disaster recovery can begin without waiting for lengthy external assessment cycles.
Humanitarian WatchFiji Roads Authority / EFL / FBC News
The Fiji Roads Authority and Energy Fiji Limited reported progressive recovery across Viti Levu as floodwaters slowly receded through the week. Road crews were clearing debris and assessing structural damage to bridges and culverts in Ba, Tavua, and Rakiraki, while EFL crews worked through night shifts to repair fallen power poles and damaged overhead lines. The Nadi–Lautoka corridor — Fiji's main tourism spine — was among the priority areas for restoration. Residents in outlying areas were cautioned to continue avoiding floodwaters and to report any downed power lines immediately.
Infrastructure RecoveryPress Freedom · Free Expression · Faith Rights · Pluralism
Island Times News / PINA
The Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) and the Fijian Media Association (FMA) have jointly announced that the 8th Pacific Media Summit will take place in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, from September 21–25, 2026. The summit will focus on digital innovation, media sustainability, climate reporting, and inclusive storytelling for remote Pacific communities. FMA General Secretary Stanley Simpson confirmed Fiji is preparing to welcome regional media colleagues to the country's second island for what promises to be the region's most significant media gathering of the year.
Pacific MediaReporters Without Borders (RSF) / FBC News
Fiji's standing in the RSF World Press Freedom Index has dramatically improved — from 102nd in 2022, when the country was the worst-ranked Pacific nation for journalists, to 44th in 2024, following the landmark repeal of the Media Industry Development Act (MIDA) in April 2023. The FBC credited the reform with ending the culture of self-censorship that plagued Fijian journalism for 16 years under Frank Bainimarama. However, RSF notes that rebuilding skills and institutional confidence in an independent press will take time, and that global press freedom continues to erode — making Fiji's gains all the more fragile and worth protecting.
Press Freedom IndexPacific Freedom Forum / Island Times
The Pacific Freedom Forum has strongly condemned the alleged assault of veteran Papua New Guinea journalist Rebecca Kuku by officers of the PNG Correctional Service while she was seeking comment on human rights conditions at Bomana prison. Kuku, known for her coverage of governance and gender-based violence, was reportedly verbally abused, punched from behind, and threatened. PFF warned that the intimidation of journalists — especially women reporters — corrodes democracy and accountability throughout the Pacific. The incident has added urgency to discussions at the upcoming Pacific Media Summit.
Journalist SafetyFiji Times / FMA
The Fijian Media Association is actively working to finalise a self-regulation framework and a code of professional conduct for Fiji's news industry — a process that gained momentum after the repeal of the MIDA Act in 2023. The FMA said the code is designed to protect editorial independence, set standards for accuracy and fairness, and create an independent complaints adjudication body. With the 2026 general election approaching, the FMA has urged all media outlets to commit to impartial reporting and to resist any pressure — political, commercial, or ethnic — that could undermine public trust.
Media Self-RegulationUS State Dept. / Fiji Sun
In a significant and quietly celebrated reform, Fiji's parliamentary business committee waived Standing Orders 28, 29, and 30, allowing Members of Parliament to pray according to their own faith traditions at the opening of sittings. The change formally acknowledges Fiji's multi-faith character at the highest level of government, moving away from a singular default to Christian prayer and affirming the constitutional principle of a secular state that honours all faiths equally. Religious leaders across Muslim, Hindu, and Christian communities have welcomed the move as a step toward genuine religious inclusion.
Religious PluralismUS State Dept. Religious Freedom Report / FBC News
Fiji's authorities have issued deportation orders for six senior leaders of the Grace Road Church, a South Korean religious group that has operated in Fiji since 2014 and built a significant agricultural and commercial presence, particularly in the Western Division. The move has renewed debate about how Fiji's government-mandated religious registration process is applied, and what standards are used to distinguish legitimate faith communities from groups raising welfare or compliance concerns. Legal analysts note that Fiji's constitution guarantees freedom of religion — but also grants the state authority to act on grounds of public safety, order, or welfare.
Religious RegistrationFarming · Sugar · Crops · Food Security · Agribusiness
FijiVillage / Ministry of Agriculture
The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has launched preparations for the landmark National Women in Agriculture Symposium 2026, running from March 8 to 11 in Suva. Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna said women are the backbone of Fiji's rural food systems yet face persistent barriers to land, finance, training, and technology. The four-day programme will feature policy dialogues, agribusiness pitching, investment linkages, hands-on workshops, and visits to women-led enterprises — culminating in Fiji's first-ever Women in Primary Industry Awards Gala Night, recognising achievements across agriculture, fisheries, forestry, sugar, and artisan sectors. The Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry is co-delivering the event, aligning with the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Women in AgricultureFBC News
The Ministry of Agriculture has officially launched two new programmes designed to modernise Fiji's farming landscape. The AgriTourism Programme links local farmers directly with the tourism industry — Fiji's largest economic driver — after consultations with Denarau chefs and procurement officers identified critical gaps in local sourcing, particularly around seasonality and quality. Commercial Protected Agriculture Farming Systems are being established to guarantee year-round production. The Agriculture Value-Added Programme, responding to findings from the 2025 Women in Agriculture Symposium, will improve access to mechanisation and processing facilities for smallholder farmers. The Denarau model will be replicated across all major tourism clusters nationwide.
Agri-modernisationFBC News
The Fiji Agriculture Statistics Unit is conducting regular nationwide surveys with technical support from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization to build a robust data foundation for the sector. The initiative aims to gather farm-level production, labour, and yield data that have historically been patchy or absent — a gap that has hindered evidence-based policymaking. The resulting database will inform the Ministry's 5-Year Strategic Development Plan 2024–2028 and support investment decisions across the non-sugar subsector. Officials say the data collection is already revealing productivity variations that offer immediate opportunity for targeted intervention.
Ag Data & PolicyFijiVillage
The CEO of the Fiji Crop and Livestock Council, Jiu Daunivalu, has called on the government to urgently improve financial access for non-sugar sector farmers. She warned that the sector's potential remains untapped because most iTaukei land is communally owned, making it difficult to use as collateral for agricultural loans. "Farmers are sitting on a gold mine, but they cannot go commercial if accessing funds is this difficult," she said. The Council has submitted a formal budget to the government and is pressing for dedicated financing instruments for land preparation and planting in the non-sugar sector.
Rural FinanceFiji Sun / Ministry of Agriculture
Tropical Cyclone Urmil's floods have caused significant damage to farms across the Western Division — Fiji's primary agricultural belt — with crops including dalo, yaqona, vegetables, and sugarcane affected in Ba, Rakiraki, Tavua, and Sigatoka. The Ministry of Agriculture has dispatched field officers to conduct emergency assessments of crop losses. The Fijian Government's disaster finance reform, announced this week by Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel, is expected to fast-track access to post-disaster agricultural support funds to help affected farmers replant before the next growing season.
Flood ImpactUS ITA / Fiji Times
Demand for Fiji's high-value export crops — particularly kava, vanilla, organic coconut products, and dried tropical fruits — is growing globally, but persistent infrastructure deficiencies continue to limit farmers' ability to scale up. Inadequate cold storage, poor rural roads, and the lack of processing facilities are driving high post-harvest losses and preventing smallholders from meeting export quality standards consistently. Industry advocates are urging the government to prioritise rural cold-chain infrastructure investment in the upcoming budget to unlock the full export potential of Fiji's non-sugar agricultural commodities.
Exports & TradeInshore · Offshore · Aquaculture · Marine Conservation · Tuna
FBC News
Fiji's fisheries sector — valued at $277 million — is facing a compounding crisis of overfishing, illegal and unreported catches, and degraded coastal ecosystems, according to the Ministry of Fisheries. Infrastructure Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau confirmed a $96.3 million government allocation through 2026 to fund fisheries research, enforcement capacity, and coastal infrastructure. Fisheries Minister Alitia Bainivalu said priority areas include capacity building, conservation fisheries, path-to-market initiatives, and the expansion of the Fish Aggregation Devices (FAD) programme to support offshore fishing communities and boost national revenue.
Industry CrisisFBC News
Parliament has passed the Fisheries Amendment Bill, replacing legislation that was nearly 80 years old and bringing Fiji's marine management framework in line with modern international standards. The new law empowers the Ministry to suspend or cancel fishing licences immediately upon specific breaches — rather than waiting for a court conviction. Minister Bainivalu said the Bill is crucial for protecting the food security and livelihoods of over 850 coastal communities. Opposition Leader Inia Seuiratu called on the government to conduct deeper consultation with qoliqoli (traditional fishing rights) owners before introducing future fisheries legislation.
LegislationFBC News
Cabinet has made the decision to lift the ban on sea cucumber harvesting, a move described by the Ministry of Fisheries as critical for restoring livelihoods in coastal communities that were hit hard by the moratorium. The sea cucumber, a high-value export commodity — particularly to Asian markets — had been banned to allow stocks to recover. Ministry officials said the lifting of the ban will be managed under strict regulatory conditions, including licensed quotas and area-based harvesting controls to prevent a return to the overexploitation that originally prompted the ban.
Sea CucumberFBC News
The Ministry of Fisheries has issued 60 new offshore fishing licences to companies operating in Fiji's exclusive economic zone, signalling confidence in the regulatory reforms underway. Minister Bainivalu also noted a growing interest from young Fijians in the fishing sector and announced that the government is encouraging communities to establish youth-led fishing cooperatives. Officials are rolling out training on sustainable fishing methods alongside the new cooperative support framework to ensure economic and environmental goals are aligned from the outset.
Licensing & YouthForum Fisheries Agency (FFA)
The United States has delivered a USD $60 million treaty payment to the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency on behalf of Pacific Island parties, the largest single treaty payment received in December 2025. Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside FFA members and development partners to advance offshore fisheries — particularly tuna — which remains one of the Pacific region's most significant economic assets. The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission has also adopted a new Management Procedure for South Pacific albacore, a major milestone for long-term stock sustainability.
Pacific Tuna DiplomacyMinistry of Fisheries Fiji
The Ministry of Fisheries' Aquaculture Development Plan 2024–2028 is advancing with key species — marine shrimp, sandfish, seaweed, freshwater prawns, tilapia, and ornamental fish — identified as commercial priorities. The Ministry oversees hatcheries in Naduruloulou, Ba, Dreketi, and Caboni, and a marine hatchery at Galoa. Fiji currently has around 500 tilapia and prawn farmers and 15 shrimp farms, including the only fully commercial shrimp operation — the Crab Company of Fiji. Officials are also progressing Aquaculture Regulations and Marine Spatial Planning frameworks to give the sector a clearer legal and planning foundation for expansion.
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FijiLive
Staff Reporter · FijiLive · Friday, 6 March 2026
Miss Fiji Ailava Samuels Crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026
Miss Fiji, Ailava Samuels, has been crowned Miss Pacific Islands 2026 at the Sofitel Resort in Denarau, Nadi. The victory is a proud moment for Fiji and the Pacific, with Samuels representing the aspirations and beauty of the region on the international stage.
Culture & AchievementFiji Sun / FBC News
By Sereana Salalo & Leone Cabenatabua · Thursday, 5 March 2026
Western Division Schools Closed; Flood Recovery Underway Across Affected Towns
Schools across the Western Division remain closed as floodwaters slowly recede from towns including Ba, Nadi, Tavua, Rakiraki, and Sigatoka. Parents have been urged to ensure children do not attempt to cross flooded roads or rivers. Vendors at the Ba Market are also struggling with the aftermath of the temporary closure caused by Tropical Cyclone Urmil.
Flood DisasterFiji Sun
By Ivamere Nataro · Wednesday, 4 March 2026
Two QVS Teachers Charged Over Student Incident — School Accepts Apology, Teachers Leave
Two teachers at Queen Victoria School have been charged in connection with an incident involving a Year 13 student and released on bail ahead of a March 19 court appearance. The school accepted an apology from the teachers, but sources confirmed the teachers had already made a firm decision to leave the institution.
EducationFBC News
Staff Reporter · FBC News · Monday, 2 March 2026
Combined Taskforce Launched to Tackle Drug Harm, Youth Vulnerability, and Crime
The Ministry of Justice has convened the inaugural meeting of the Combined Law Enforcement and Social Crisis Agency Taskforce. The body brings together law enforcement, health, education, rehabilitation, and community outreach agencies to address growing social challenges including drug harm, youth vulnerability, and emerging crime trends across Fiji.
Social JusticeFijiVillage
Staff Reporter · FijiVillage · Tuesday, 3 March 2026
First-Ever iTaukei Feature Film Premieres to Celebrate Indigenous Culture
Fiji marked a cultural milestone this week with the premiere of the country's first-ever feature film entirely in the iTaukei language. The film is seen as a major step in preserving and celebrating Indigenous Fijian storytelling, culture, and language on the big screen.
Arts & CultureFiji Times / PINA
By Repeka Nasiko & PINA · Sunday, 8 March 2026
International Women's Day 2026 — Fiji Marks IWD With WICAT Launch, Rallies & Calls for Grassroots Action
Fiji joins the world in marking International Women's Day 2026 under the theme "Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls." In Suva, the WICAT (Women in Construction and Trade) Fiji website was launched this week with a $30,000 government grant — a celebration of women forging careers in trades long dominated by men. Women's rights activist Nalini Singh called for a return to IWD's activist roots, warning that increased visibility must not drown out grassroots women's voices. Across the Pacific, PINA President Kalafi Moala urged media employers to ensure safe, equal workplaces for women journalists — noting that more than half report harassment or abuse at work.
IWD 2026