The Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Tavaiqia, marked his 94th birthday on Wednesday at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Nadi. Traditional leaders from Vuda, members of royal families, and residents of Viseisei gathered to celebrate with him, highlighting his 14 years of leadership in the vanua.
During the celebration, Tui Vuda expressed his gratitude for reaching such a milestone in life. “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 guidance that allows me to continue leading my vanua at this age,” he said. He also expressed appreciation for the love and support he has received from everyone present.
His spokesperson, Ratu Meli Tora, noted that Tui Vuda is currently the only eldest iTaukei paramount chief still alive. “May God continue to bless his life, his leadership, and his vanua,” Ratu Meli stated.