The 2024 Vodafone Ratu Sukuna Bowl competition emphasizes more than just athletic participation. This was highlighted by Major General Jone Kalouniwai, Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, during the event’s 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 accepted a challenge from acting Police Commissioner Juki Fong Chew, stressing the importance of the collective responsibilities of the forces to improve Fiji.
“It’s more than just winning or losing; it’s about the spirit of unity within our forces, our identity, and our contributions to the future of this nation,” Kalouniwai expressed. “Recently, the RFMF has embraced a path of reconciliation and is committed to moving forward positively.”
Kalouniwai pointed out the Fiji Police Force’s struggle with drug-related crises impacting communities and expressed hope that they would uphold strong moral values while fulfilling their duties.
Chew, outlining the challenges ahead for the RFMF, reaffirmed that the Fiji Police Force is eager to defend the Ratu Sukuna Bowl, claiming Nasova as its rightful home. “We are prepared and looking forward to the challenge,” he stated. “As professional police officers, we are trained to be vigilant and to think critically about strategies at play.”
The police team successfully retained the Ratu Sukuna Bowl last year after a tie, drawing 11-11 at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Chew reiterated the need to address the rise in social issues by advocating against drug use. He also confirmed that the new Ratu Sukuna tanoa, unveiled in 2022, will continue to reside in Nasova.
Salman Khan, chief commercial officer of Vodafone Fiji, remarked on Fiji’s deep-rooted passion for rugby, noting that this event is a platform for the disciplined forces to compete not just for victory but for a trophy symbolizing camaraderie, discipline, and spirited rivalry. “To the players, compete with integrity, passion, and pride for your team, remembering the legacy of past champions and the aspirations of future generations,” Khan added.
The Ratu Sukuna Bowl challenge is tentatively scheduled for November 8 at the HFC Bank Stadium, with additional sports events set to take place that week.