Ratu Eparama Tavaiqia, the Tui Vuda, marked his 94th birthday on Wednesday at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi. The celebration was attended by traditional leaders from Vuda, members of chiefly families, and villagers from Viseisei. This event also commemorated the 14th year of Ratu Eparama’s leadership over his vanua.
During the celebration, Ratu Eparama expressed gratitude for reaching this milestone, stating he felt blessed to live this long. “I thank God for giving me life that I can be here and celebrate my birthday with you today. I am grateful for the leadership and the guidance that at this age I can still lead my vanua,” he shared. He also expressed appreciation for the love and support shown to him by those present.
Ratu Meli Tora, the Tui Vuda’s spokesperson, noted that Ratu Eparama is currently the only surviving eldest iTaukei paramount chief. He wished for continued blessings for Ratu Eparama’s life, leadership, and vanua.