Families of the nine men who vanished at sea near Kadavu have begun to accept that their loved ones will not return and have started preparations for traditional farewell rites, relatives said on Thursday. The move marks a painful shift from the initial hope that they might yet be found alive, as communities in Suva and beyond rally to support the grieving families.
Among those preparing the burua — a traditional funeral feast and offering of food — is Asena Vakaruru, the wife of one of the missing, Maciu Niubalavu. “It is all happening so fast that I don’t believe they are really gone,” Mrs Vakaruru said, describing the slow settling of the reality that the nine men did not survive the incident. She said her deepest sorrow was for her children and for the wives and children of the other men, many of whom relied on the missing men as their primary providers.
The men named by families are Osea Vakaruru and his three sons, Lemeki Tikoitoga and Mateo Tikoitoga, Savenaca Balenatuvu, Julian Tavola, Pita Kinikini, Esekaia Boladuadua, Sitiveni Tekivakatini and Maciu Niubalavu. As arrangements proceed, relatives said the emotional burden remains heavy even as practical preparations for ceremonies and financial assistance are organised.
A memorial Mass will be held at 9am on Friday at the Raiwaqa Catholic Church, where parishioners, Columban priests and brothers from the Pacific Regional Seminary are expected to attend and offer prayers. In addition to formal church rites, a soli — a community offering — will take place at the Nanuku Settlement in Vatuwaqa, Suva, to raise support for the families left behind, particularly the women and children who depended on the nine men.
Community groups and friends have already been contributing prayers, material assistance and financial help. Those who wish to assist directly are asked to contact Siteri on 2719690 or Asena on 9308977; the numbers are also being used for M-PAiSA contributions to support funeral costs and family needs. Organisers emphasised the urgent need to coordinate aid for immediate expenses as traditional ceremonies are arranged.
The preparations for the burua and the memorial Mass represent the latest development in the aftermath of the maritime disappearance near Kadavu. Families and community leaders said the ceremonies will provide an important cultural and spiritual closure for relatives still grappling with loss, even as they continue to mourn and adjust to the long-term impacts on households and children.