News
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Starlink-powered USO to connect Fiji’s Lau Group
Fiji takes a bold step toward universal digital access as Digicel Fiji signs a Universal Service Obligation contract to extend mobile and internet services to the Lau Group. A collaboration-driven push could unlock new economic, health, and educational opportunities for remote communities as the islands move toward a more connected future.
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Suva Festive Rush: Island Shoppers Stock Up Ahead of Christmas
Festive shopping is in full swing as supermarkets stock up and promotions heat up. Island travelers and local families alike are stocking up ahead of the holidays, blending back-to-school buys with Christmas gifts—all under careful security and weather-aware planning as the season unfolds.
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Tacirua Family’s Swift Alert Sparks Police Manhunt After Attempted Robbery
An alert Tacirua family foiled an attempted robbery, prompting a swift police response. Investigators are tracing the vehicle involved and pursuing two suspects as the case develops.
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Pacific Scientist Moves from Campus to Council to Shape Policy and Conservation
Dr. Isoa Korovulavula steps into two pivotal governance roles that fuse academia with policy for the Pacific. As the Academic Community representative on the National Environment Council and a member of the IUCN Regional Oceania Council, he aims to turn University research into practical action—advancing biodiversity, climate resilience, and community-led conservation across the region. His…
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New Zealand Faces 250,000-Worker Gap by 2050: Is Regional Mobility the Answer?
New Zealand faces a growing skills squeeze across key sectors—from classrooms to clinics and engineering labs. As immigration and regional mobility policies come under the microscope, experts say fresh, regionally minded solutions may be needed. How will the country navigate skills development in a fast-moving digital economy?
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Sheraton Fiji Unveils South Pacific’s Largest Gingerbread House
At a Fiji resort, the lobby becomes a holiday spectacle with a colossal gingerbread house as its centerpiece. A warm blend of culinary craft, local hospitality, and festive spirit sets the stage for a season of unforgettable moments.
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Labasa TB Patients at Risk Amid Isolation Ward Shortage
With a stalled children’s ward renovation, Labasa Hospital is repurposing its TB ward for new use. The unfolding situation highlights how infrastructure delays can impact essential care for vulnerable patients.
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Family Help Sparks Tacirua Robbery Arrests by Fiji Police
Two suspects were taken into custody after a tense Tacirua operation, with officers sustaining injuries during the arrest. A brave local family intervened and residents provided crucial information that helped officers close in quickly. With festive-season crime on the rise, authorities promise a heightened police response to keep communities safe.
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Stay-at-Home Dad Graduates in Automotive Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Inspires Others
After a decade away from the classroom, a 33-year-old father of three clinches a new milestone with a National Certificate in Automotive Electrical and Electronics Engineering. His journey—built on sacrifice, family support, and a fresh focus on practical skills—reframes what success looks like. A testament to resilience and the power of vocational education to reshape…
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Fiji Tourism Faces Waste Challenge as Grassroots Recycling Takes Center Stage
Tourism’s footprint is driving Fiji’s waste challenge, prompting urgent calls for smarter recycling and stronger community partnerships. With landfill space dwindling, a shift toward circular waste models and measurable targets could redefine how destinations balance growth with stewardship.
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Fiji Bids Farewell to UN Peacekeeping in Iraq as Final Contingent Returns
After months abroad on a UN peacekeeping mission, Fiji’s 156 servicemen and women return home as the final contingent marks the end of a chapter. A homecoming rich with gratitude, leadership, and the joy of reuniting with loved ones.
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Fiji’s Return and Earn: Turning Waste into Income for Cleaner, Safer Communities
Every PET bottle and aluminum can could fund a cleaner street and a greener future. A bold community initiative turns waste into opportunity, empowering youth and inviting everyone to join the push for a climate-ready neighborhood.
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Ro Teimumu Kepa Turns 80, Reflects on Divine Purpose and Solomon’s Wisdom in Leadership
Ro Teimumu Kepa marked a milestone birthday with reflections on a life guided by faith, family, and service. Her words weave Solomon’s wisdom with humble leadership, hinting at a deeper story of purpose and community beyond the celebration.
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Nausori Couple in Court Over Alleged Rape and Trafficking of 14-Year-Old Niece
Two Nausori residents appeared in the High Court in Suva amid serious allegations involving a minor in their family. With new disclosures laid on the table, the case moves toward its next hearing, leaving questions about what comes next in the courtroom.
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Fiji’s Festive Road Toll Reaches 75, Prompting Urgent Safety Calls
Festive-season travel raises the risk on Fiji’s roads, with 75 lives lost and counting. Pedestrians and drivers are urged to stay vigilant—use crossings, wear bright clothing, buckle up, and cut distractions to help keep everyone safe.
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Fiji Police Baton of Honour Winner: Young Recruit Follows His Father’s Footsteps
At 25, Constable Steven Bolaitamana earns the Baton of Honour, topping his course as the best recruit. A story of family legacy, discipline, and a young officer’s vow to serve his community with integrity.
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Acura Qaranivalu Acquitted as Appeal Court Overturns Marijuana Conviction
An appellate ruling has quashed a long-standing cannabis conviction, citing weak evidence and serious inconsistencies. The acquittal marks a dramatic turn after years of imprisonment and highlights how justice can correct itself.
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Fiji’s Oceania Institute of Technology Celebrates Inaugural Graduation as Programs Expand
An inaugural cohort marks a milestone for the Oceania Institute of Technology as it celebrates 242 graduates across diverse, industry-focused programs. The milestone hints at bold plans for bachelor degrees and broader opportunities, with a notable rise in women’s participation in vocational training.
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Savusavu Hospital X-ray Service to Return After Major Electrical Upgrades
After a year without X-ray services, a regional hospital is moving toward a major upgrade. An electrical overhaul is unlocking plans for a new X-ray unit this financial year, signaling safer, faster diagnostic care for patients and frontline staff.
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Navua Hospital birthing unit closed over structural concerns; patients redirected to CWM Hospital in Suva
Navua Hospital has temporarily closed its inpatient and birthing unit due to structural safety concerns, with care redirected to CWM Hospital in Suva. Essential services continue from Navua as authorities coordinate repairs and plan the next steps for the community.
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Fiji Birth Registration Delays Hit Taveuni and Tailevu, Near Two-Year Waits Prompt Action
New data from Fiji reveals troubling delays in birth registrations, with multi-year backlogs in several regions and wide disparities between offices. The findings highlight equity challenges and the urgent need to ensure every child’s right to a legal identity.
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Nasinu Makes History with Its First Female Garbage Collector
Nasinu makes history with its first female garbage collector. Amalaini Bui’s journey—driven by faith, family, and a call for community teamwork—offers a glimpse into a changing town and a future where opportunity knows no bounds.
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Fiji Birth Registration: Five Hospitals Handle Most Births, Data-Driven Reforms Boost Accuracy
Fiji’s birth data reveals a striking concentration: most registrations come from five major hospitals. A new approach to standardizing places of birth could dramatically improve data accuracy and speed, signaling big gains for maternal and child health nationwide.
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Fiji Birth Registrations Plummet After 2021: What’s Behind the Missing Numbers?
Fiji’s latest data reveals a troubling drop in birth registrations since 2021, with completion rates sliding to historically low levels. The trend raises important questions about health, welfare planning, and ensuring every child is accounted for in the years ahead.
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Fiji Year 13 Certificate Exam Pass Rate Rises to 95% Amid Education Push
Fiji’s Year 13 results reveal a striking leap in achievement, with a 95% pass rate and 8,646 candidates this year. A wave of perfect scores across 50 schools hints at a bright new chapter for students as educators and families rally behind their promising journeys.
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Senior Fiji Police Officer on Leave Amid Corruption Probe
An investigation is underway after corruption allegations involving a senior officer, with leave granted to verify claims tied to a 2024 incident. Officials stress transparency and a steadfast commitment to accountability as the inquiry continues.
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Fiji Military Chief Signals Urgency Over Drug Crisis, Calls for Collective Action
Fiji’s top military leaders weigh in on a rising drug crisis, navigating fragile lines of command while acknowledging the public’s deep concerns. The discussion hints at a broader call for unity and action that touches families across the nation.
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Fiji Military Forces Probe Alleged Information Leak Linked to Drug Syndicates
Allegations have sparked swift action within Fiji’s military, with a personnel placed on leave amid claims of sharing sensitive information with drug networks. An internal investigation is now underway, and the implicated device has been seized as the probe unfolds. Leadership emphasizes discipline, accountability, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law and democratic…
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England-born 21-Year-Old Heads to Fiji for Christmas Homecoming
Twenty-one-year-old Mereani Matakibau trades holiday gifts for a heartfelt homecoming, traveling from England to Makadru Village in Fiji. By boat with her father, she’s set to reconnect with grandparents, soak in island life, and rediscover her roots this festive season.
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Fiji’s Tanoa International Hotel Spreads Christmas Cheer with Loloma Home Gift Drive
Christmas invites us to pause, reflect, and extend kindness beyond ourselves. A heartwarming gift drive by Tanoa International Hotel brings joy to kids at Loloma Home, echoing the timeless message of peace, generosity, and hope for all.