The late Minister for Agriculture, Vatimi Rayalu, will be interred at the Old Suva Cemetery this Friday after passing away at the age of 57 due to a brief illness. The announcement of his death was made to Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who later confirmed the arrangements for Rayalu’s funeral.
Traditionally, the reguregu, or mourning ceremonies, will start on Wednesday at the Vodafone Arena in Suva, culminating in a funeral service at the same location. Rayalu hailed from Vanuavatu Island in Lau Province and was politically active under the People’s Alliance banner during the 2022 general elections, during which he was elected as Minister for Agriculture and Waterways on December 24 of that year.
Before entering politics, Rayalu had a notable career as a civil servant, accumulating extensive experience in various roles within the Ministry of Agriculture. His dedication to the agriculture sector earned him immense respect within the community, where he was known for ensuring accessibility and support for farmers. He held various senior positions, including Principal Agricultural Officer and Chief Economist, illustrating his commitment to agricultural development in Fiji.
Education played a crucial role in his life; he graduated with a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of the South Pacific in 2000 and later achieved a Master’s in Business Administration in 2016. Rayalu is survived by his wife, Vasiti, and their eight children.
The sentiments surrounding his passing highlight his significant legacy in public service and agriculture, aspects of his life that resonated with many Fijians. His leadership style and commitment to community welfare served as an inspiration, reflecting the hope of continuing his work in bettering the agricultural landscape of Fiji. As the nation mourns his loss, there is an intrinsic call to honor his memory by pursuing the values he stood for.
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