Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has received official notification of the death of Vatimi Rayalu, Fiji’s Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, who passed away at the age of 57 after a brief illness in Suva. His passing marks a significant loss for the nation, as Rayalu was known for his dedicated public service and commitment to enhancing the agricultural sector for the benefit of Fijians.
A ceremonial delegation comprised of Assistant Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, and family members communicated the news to the Prime Minister at his residence. Prime Minister Rabuka expressed profound sorrow, acknowledging Rayalu as a “humble yet visionary leader” who worked tirelessly for decades in service to agriculture and national development.
Rayalu’s reguregu, or traditional mourning ceremonies, will commence on Wednesday, June 18, at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. The funeral service will take place on Friday, June 20, 2025, concluding with his burial at the Old Suva Cemetery.
Originally from Vanuavatu Island in Lau, Rayalu had a noteworthy career in agriculture, with significant positions within the Ministry prior to his political ascent. He was elected as Minister on December 24, 2022, under the People’s Alliance party. His educational background includes a Bachelor of Agriculture from the University of the South Pacific and an MBA attained in 2016.
Rayalu is survived by his wife, Vasiti, six sons, and two daughters, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and compassion that touched the lives of many Fijians. His dedication to improving agriculture was not only evident during his tenure but has left a lasting impression within the community. As the nation mourns, there is a sense of hope that his principles of service and dedication can inspire others to continue the work he championed in bettering Fiji’s agricultural landscape.
Following the news of his passing, tributes highlighted Rayalu’s impactful leadership style, underscoring the importance of community commitment that he embodied. His legacy serves as a source of inspiration for future leaders in Fiji’s public service, encouraging them to prioritize compassion alongside development.
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