The President of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, alongside First Lady Emily Lalabalavu, led the closing ceremony of the 2025 Nadi Bula Festival at King Charles Park, marking the successful end of a week-long celebration rich in culture and community spirit.
In his address, President Lalabalavu emphasized the festival’s dual role: generating funds for charitable initiatives and providing a safe, family-friendly environment for entertainment. He proudly noted that the Bula Festival Trust has significantly contributed to healthcare, education, and community development over its 65-year history.
“Many lives have been transformed through the long-running Bula Festival Trust,” Lalabalavu stated, citing beneficiaries including those needing medical treatment, food relief for vulnerable communities, and support for local educational institutions like the Nadi Special School.
However, the President also voiced his concern over a pressing societal issue—rising illicit drug use, which he linked to an increase in HIV infection rates among youth. He called for a united response, urging families, civil society, and communities to join in the fight against this challenge, stating, “We are now at a crossroads.”
Echoing the sentiments of the Fiji Police Force, he described the situation as a “pestilence” and highlighted the need for an active community response, encouraging a preventive approach through awareness and cooperation. “Let us not choose silence or apathy,” he urged, invoking a collective effort to protect the future of children across Fiji.
The festival culminated in a celebratory note as Miss Lion of Judah Security Services (LJSS) Alumeci Davu was crowned as Miss Bula Festival 2025, drawing applause from the audience. The event also recognized standout participants in various categories, including Miss Charity, Miss Personality, and Best Talent, showcasing a wide range of talents within the local community.
The themes of community strength and responsibility echoed the sentiments expressed during the festival’s opening, where Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka called for collective unity under the theme “Rebuilding Lives through Compassion and Charity.” This reflection on compassion is crucial as Fiji navigates recent challenges, including those posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Overall, the 2025 Bula Festival has reaffirmed the power of local initiatives to inspire hope and promote solidarity. The active participation and commitment to important social causes shown at this event serve as a beacon of optimism for Fiji’s future, highlighting the importance of community resilience and proactive engagement in addressing societal issues.
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