Alitia Bainivalu, previously the Assistant Minister for Tourism, was officially sworn in today as the new Minister for Fisheries and Forests. Her appointment follows the resignation of her predecessor, Kalaveti Ravu, who recently left the Cabinet after being charged by FICAC and appearing in court.
Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka announced the appointment stating, “In light of Hon. Ravu’s resignation, I am appointing Hon. Alitia Bainivalu as the Minister for Fisheries and Forests.” Mr. Rabuka highlighted Ms. Bainivalu’s qualifications, noting her previous extensive experience as a senior Fisheries Officer.
Additionally, Bainivalu is highly educated, holding a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of the South Pacific and a Masters degree in Marine Science from the Tokyo University of Marine Science & Technology.