The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition is not solely about sports participation, as emphasized by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, during the launch at the Naval Base in Walu Bay, Suva. The theme for this year’s event is “Stronger Together: Building a Drug Free Nation through Family, Unity, and Reconciliation.”
Kalouniwai accepted the challenge from Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew, stressing the importance of the responsibilities of both forces and their contributions to a better Fiji. He remarked, “It’s more than about winning or losing; it’s about the spirit that we have within the forces, and what we represent and can do for the country’s future.”
He noted that the RFMF has been on a path of reconciliation, aiming to create a new way forward. Meanwhile, he acknowledged the Fiji Police Force’s challenge in combating drug-related issues that affect the community. Kalouniwai expressed hope that, embodying the spirit of the Sukuna Bowl, both forces would aim to maintain high moral standards in fulfilling their duties.
Chew, in his challenge to the RFMF, stated that Nasova remains the rightful home of the Ratu Sukuna Bowl. “The Fiji Police Force is prepared and eager to defend the Ratu Sukuna tanoa,” he said, hinting at the competitive nature of the event, with a nod to the ongoing social issues related to drugs.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl was retained by the police last year after a draw of 11-11 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Chew reinforced the police’s stance against drugs, stating, “Since the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa was showcased to the world in 2022, it has only one home: Nasova – and that is where it shall return this year.”
Salman Khan, chief commercial officer of Vodafone Fiji, commented on the significance of the event, highlighting Fiji’s passion for rugby and the camaraderie, discipline, and rivalry embodied in the trophy. He urged players to compete with integrity and pride, reminding them that they represent not only their own ambitions but also the legacy of past champions and the hopes of future generations.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is tentatively scheduled for November 8 at HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sporting events planned for the same week.