News
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Fiji Detects First Bactrocera facialis Fruit Fly, Launches Emergency Response
An alarming new invasive fruit fly has been detected in Fiji, triggering an emergency containment effort across multiple islands. With crops at risk and movement controls on fruit underway, farmers and communities are urged to stay vigilant.
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Fiji launches first-of-its-kind aerial groundwater survey to secure drinking water
An airborne survey over Vanua Levu is mapping Fiji’s hidden water resources to secure future supplies and boost climate resilience. This nationwide effort aims to expand access to safe drinking water for communities long underserved.
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Fiji ramps up disability inclusion with new policy and funding boost
Fiji is rolling out a national policy to strengthen disability rights, inclusion, and well-being, backed by a major funding boost and a focus on accessibility across health, education, and employment. A new Disability Data Hub and MERL framework aim to turn commitments into real gains for thousands of families and communities.
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Vodafone Sugar Festival kicks off in Lautoka under Unity Strength in Diversity theme
Lautoka gears up for a vibrant weekend as the Vodafone Sugar Festival returns, kicking off this Saturday at the Carnival Grounds. Five contestants compete for the crown in a week-long celebration built on the Unity Strength in Diversity theme, with sponsor details to come. A community-focused showcase of culture and talent continues through October 5.
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Fiji PM Rabuka Faces Bid to Strike Out Judicial Review Over Ashton-Lewis COI Findings
A high-stakes legal showdown is unfolding in Fiji as Prime Minister Rabuka’s team moves to strike out a judicial review filed by former FICAC commissioner Barbara Malimali. The dispute centers on the Ashton-Lewis Commission of Inquiry report and questions of immunity, with a conjoined hearing looming over governance and accountability in public institutions.
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Three Tests Ordered in Meth Seizure Case as Court Delays Bail Decisions
Three distinct tests are underway on a large meth seizure linked to two foreign nationals, with prosecutors contemplating charge amendments. As the court pauses for results and interpreters may join the next session, the case underscores ongoing efforts to tighten drug enforcement and safeguard communities.
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Fiji Local Councils Stalled on Permanent CEO Appointments, Parliament Demands Timelines
Parliament questions ongoing delays in naming permanent CEOs for Fiji’s municipal councils, as acting leaders keep the wheels turning and concerns about conflicts of interest surface. The government says recruitment is moving forward, with two professional firms brought in to speed up the process. As debate grows over timelines and governance, residents await a clearer…
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Fiji Doubles Disability Funding as Inclusion Drive Gains Momentum
Fiji steps up its commitment to disability inclusion, with funding nearly doubling over five years and a bold policy aimed at empowering more than 120,000 citizens. A new monitoring framework and reforms target infrastructure barriers to unlock true participation for all. A turning point toward a more inclusive society is on the horizon.
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Black Boxes Recovered in UPS Plane Crash as Investigators Seek Answers
Black boxes from a UPS cargo jet that crashed during takeoff in Louisville have been recovered, with early reports that the recorders appear intact. As crews work to control a massive blaze and investigators begin piecing together the events, questions about aviation safety loom large.
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Fiji on Alert as New Fruit Fly Threat Triggers Emergency Response
An invasive fruit fly has been detected in Fiji, posing a new threat to tropical crops. Authorities have launched an emergency response with traps, targeted baits, and movement controls to limit its spread. The evolving situation highlights the vigilance needed to protect island agriculture and food security.
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Fiji Expands Fisheries Powers to Crack Down on Illegal Fishing
Fiji moves to deepen enforcement against illegal fishing with a new Fisheries Amendment Bill. The draft would expand powers for inspectors, including potential detentions of vessels and gear. As Parliament weighs the proposals, stakeholders watch closely to see how these changes could reshape enforcement and the future of Fiji’s coastal communities.
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Fiji’s Fisheries Amendment Bill 2025 Expands Enforcement Powers and Penalties
Fiji is poised to reshape its fisheries rules with a new Fisheries (Amendment) Bill 2025. The proposal expands enforcement powers, introduces a fixed-penalty regime, and broadens what counts as “fish,” signaling a major shift in balancing resource protection with local livelihoods.
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Most Fiji Education Grants Approved, a Few Schools Delayed by Compliance
Most Fiji schools have received their term grants, but a few are still navigating compliance hurdles delaying funding. Late financial reports and missing AGM minutes are slowing the process as the ministry works with school leaders to unlock support.
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Field Visits Over Social Media: Fiji Sugar Minister Urges Opposition to Meet Cane Farmers
Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh urges opposition MPs to trade online chatter for face-to-face chats with farmers to truly grasp the cane sector’s challenges. As modernization and transport investments take shape, the season’s pressures on growers—and concerns over payments—are shaping a closely watched industry.
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Fiji Day overseas trips spark scrutiny over government spending
Overseas Fiji Day celebrations drew sharp attention as new figures reveal ministers’ travel costs abroad. The disclosure has reignited debate on fiscal responsibility and the potential benefits of international engagement for Fiji. What these trips could mean for local communities and future budgets remains a hot topic.
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Fiji Opposition Slams Local Council CEO Appointments
Parliamentary sparring over Fiji’s local governance reveals a debate between politics and professional leadership. Opposition MP Premila Kumar calls the appointment of special administrators as CEOs a clear conflict of interest, claiming many are “failed politicians” in key municipal roles. The discussion centers on merit, transparency, and the future of local service delivery.
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Fiji Exam Integrity Under Scrutiny as Minister Defends Transparent Policies
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro defends the integrity of Fiji’s national exams, stressing that exam policies are transparent and publicly accessible. The discussion highlights ongoing reforms and a call for collective action among educators, families, and communities to strengthen academic integrity and student outcomes.
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Loving Hands: Fiji Teams with Miss Fiji 2025 to Tackle Toxic Social Media
A new anthem is aimed at softening Fiji’s online climate. “Loving Hands” brings together the Online Safety Commission and Miss Fiji 2025 to promote mindful posting, kindness, and resilience across social media and communities. The collaboration also offers training and outreach to build a safer digital space for all.
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Rarawai Sugar Mill Targets December Restart After Major Rehabilitation
After a devastating fire, Fiji’s Rarawai Sugar Mill is edging toward a staged revival. Rehabilitation work is moving forward on several fronts, with a December 2025 restart in sight and broader plans to support farmers and the sugar industry. A story of resilience and coordinated effort unfolding across Fiji’s milling sector.
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Louisville UPS Crash Raises Questions About Aviation Safety
Tragedy strikes at a Kentucky airport after a cargo plane crashes during takeoff. As investigators begin to unpack what happened, communities await answers on aviation safety and emergency response.
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Australia Sets Streaming Quotas to Boost Local Content—What’s at Stake
Australia eyes new rules that would require streaming platforms to reinvest in local content, from drama and documentaries to kids’ shows. With debates over definitions and possible loopholes, this shift could redefine what Australian audiences see on screen.
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Fiji Corrections Embraces Rehab for Reintegration
Fiji is shifting from traditional incarceration to a rehabilitation‑and‑reintegration approach, highlighted by a 150‑year milestone and bold plans for education, skills training, and support services. As reforms unfold, debates over governance and the challenges faced by ex-offenders keep the conversation lively.
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Fiji Aims for December Referendum Bill as Constitutional Reforms Advance
Fiji moves toward a constitutional crossroads, with a Referendum Bill targeted for December. Behind the scenes, a Cabinet subcommittee is steering the process as work on a Constitution Review Committee gathers pace. A recently clarified Supreme Court ruling could reshape how amendments to the 2013 Constitution unfold, signaling a potentially transformative period for governance.
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Fiji Electoral Reform in Focus as Commission’s Report Remains Unreleased
With the next general election looming, Fiji’s debate over electoral reform remains unresolved as a key report sits unpublished. Ballot design, representation gaps, and questions about the 2013 Constitution are fueling talks about how Fiji votes—and whose voices are heard.
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Fiji Eyes Ethnicity Data in Elections to Boost Voter Turnout
Fiji gears up for sweeping electoral reforms, with renewed consideration of ethnicity data to boost turnout and inform national policy. Draft amendments, overseas voting enhancements, and targeted registration strategies hint at a more inclusive, engaged democracy ahead.
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Bird Strikes May Reshape Fiji Airways’ Safety and Tourism Strategy
Bird strikes are pushing Fiji’s aviation costs higher and threatening the tourism backbone. A new wildlife-management plan around major airports promises to curb the risk and safeguard Fiji’s skies—and the jobs that rely on them.
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Fiji Resilience: A Man’s Remarkable Journey Through Loss to Gratitude
Quietly at the Fiji Museum, Pardeep Chand reflects on a life of bold dreams, unexpected turns, and steadfast gratitude. From a bustling family childhood to moments of hardship and healing, his story is a testament to resilience and the small joys that keep us moving forward.
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UNEP Warns Pledges Fall Short of 1.5°C Goal Ahead of COP30
A new UNEP warning says current climate pledges aren’t enough to curb warming this century. With COP30 on the horizon, experts stress only rapid, deeper cuts and a swift shift to renewables can avert severe, lasting impacts—while reshaping economies and health in the process. The clock is tightening on action that could redefine our energy…
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Rewa Street Meth Case: Bail Hearing for Three Suspects
Three people tied to a broader drug investigation are facing a bail hearing this Friday as their lawyers prepare a defense. The case centers on alleged methamphetamine possession and related charges, with further linked prosecutions in the works. The developments highlight ongoing efforts to curb illicit drugs and protect the community.
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Fiji Gears Up for 2026 Elections With New Civic Education Curriculum for Teachers
Fiji is advancing a bold plan to put democracy education at the heart of its classrooms. Through nationwide workshops, teachers are being equipped with a new elections curriculum ahead of the 2026 vote, while broader community outreach aims to strengthen civic participation and trusted public engagement.