The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition signifies more than just athletic participation. Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, conveyed this message during the official launch at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva, yesterday.
This year’s theme for the Ratu Sukuna Bowl is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug-Free Nation through Family, Unity, and Reconciliation.” Kalouniwai embraced the challenge presented by Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, emphasizing the responsibilities of both forces in striving for a better Fiji.
Kalouniwai remarked, “It is more than about winning or losing; it’s about the spirit we all have in the forces, about who we are, what we represent, and what we can do for the future of this country.” He noted that the Republic of Fiji Military Forces has been on a path of reconciliation, looking to forge a new direction.
He also addressed the Fiji Police Force’s struggle with drug-related issues, which have been affecting local communities. “I just hope that as we embody the spirit of the Sukuna Bowl in the next few months, we will strive to maintain a high moral ground as we fulfill our responsibilities,” Kalouniwai added.
Chew asserted that Nasova is the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. He expressed the eagerness of the Fiji Police Force to defend the Ratu Sukuna tanoa, the trophy associated with the competition. “As career police officers, we are trained to be cautious and can’t help but consider the strategies involved in this rivalry,” he said. The police retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl last year after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park, Nadi.
Chew further advocated for a stance against drugs, emphasizing the rising social issues in communities. He stated that since the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa was revealed in 2022, it has found its true home in Nasova, where it will return this year.
Salman Khan, chief commercial officer at Vodafone Fiji, expressed that Fiji has a deep passion for rugby, and this event allows disciplined forces to compete not only for victory but for a trophy that represents camaraderie, discipline, and spirited competition. He encouraged players to engage with integrity and pride, recognizing that they carry the aspirations of past champions and the dreams of future generations.
The tentative date for this year’s Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is set for November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sports events scheduled for the same week.