The Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Tavaiqia, marked his 94th birthday at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi on Wednesday. The celebration was attended by traditional leaders from Vuda, members of chiefly families, and villagers from Viseisei. This year also marks the 14th year of Tui Vuda’s leadership in his community.
Ratu Eparama expressed gratitude for reaching this milestone, stating he felt blessed to celebrate his birthday surrounded by loved ones. “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 said. He also thanked everyone for their love and support.
His spokesperson, Ratu Meli Tora, noted that Tui Vuda is currently the oldest iTaukei paramount chief alive. Ratu Meli offered his hopes that God would continue to bless Tui Vuda’s life, leadership, and community.