Office of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji

11/13/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 11/12/2024 18:05

MELANESIAN COMMUNITIES ARE A VITAL PART OF OUR NATIONAL STORY:PM RABUKA

Melanesian communities in Fiji are a vital part of our national story.
This was reinforced by the Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka while officiating at the 160th anniversary of the arrival of the Melanesian laborers at Suva's Civic Centre foreshore today.
PM Rabuka addressed the direct descendants of the Melanesian laborers, highlighting that while the government "will continue to assist you, I urge you all to actively engage and collaborate with us to ensure that our collective efforts are truly impactful".
"Today, we commemorate your history. It's not just a history for you as descendants of your forefathers and foremothers, it has become part of the history of the country you now call home."
With the theme, "Unshackling our history: re-storying Melanesians in Fiji", the event brought together Melanesian descendants from around the country and it was an opportunity to honor their forefathers' arrival, and to celebrate their heritage, resilience, and the cultural ties that bind them across generations.
"160 years has been a journey of resilience and strength, a journey of finding a sense of place and belonging," PM Rabuka shared.
"I urge us all. Let us re-write our story. Let us confront the unpleasant truth. Let us break free from the burdens of colonial legacy and move towards healing and renewal.
"Your forefathers had an unwavering spirit of hard work which significantly contributed to Fiji's development all these years. Your ancestor's legacy is intertwined with Fiji's history at every turn."
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed government's continued support for Melanesian communities in Fiji.
He also called on relevant government departments, NGOs, religious institutions, private sector, community leaders and supporters to work with the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs and the Fiji Melanesian Council to expand the provision of services and address key issues that matters most to the welfare and security of the Melanesian communities.
Read the Prime Minister's full remarks on www.pmoffice.gov.fj