In the mid-20th century, Lautoka emerged as Fiji’s “Sugar City,” driven by the establishment of the Lautoka Sugar Mill in 1903. This industrial development turned the area into a hub of economic opportunity, attracting people from various parts of the country. Among those who made the journey for a better life was Salanieta Vasekai, a villager from Nalawa, Ra. In the early 1970s, she moved to Lautoka, eventually settling in Waiyavi, where she found love and started a family.
As her family grew, Ms. Vasekai sought a more permanent residence and relocated with her husband and children to the outskirts of Drasa, joining the sugar cane farming community. In the following years, she and her neighbors decided to formally request permission to settle on land owned by the Naviyago villagers. Her son, Kolinio Nasilokia, recounts that this decision laid the groundwork for what is now known as Vadraiyawasewa Village, home to over 40 households.
Mr. Nasilokia recalls how his mother and seven other individuals approached the landowners in Vadraiyawa, reaching out to the village chief, Ratu Kini Cokanasiga, at the time. He reminisced about Ratu Kini’s leadership, which was marked by a commitment to serving his people and ensuring equitable treatment. The group received the chief’s blessing, transforming their journey from mere travelers into settled residents with a community identity.
Upon reaching the traditional lands near the Naviyago and Vitogo riverbanks, they adhered to the iTaukei custom of kerekere, a formal request for land use. Ratu Kini’s benevolence is noteworthy, as he recognized their needs and accepted them, allowing them to occupy a portion of ancestral lands. This generous act, known as veivakatalei, established a lasting bond between the settlers and the Naviyago community.
Ratu Kini not only offered them land but also emphasized the importance of faith in God and harmonious living among one another. His message continues to resonate within the community, marking the foundations laid in 1978 that residents still honor today.
The name Vadraiyawasewa reflects the strong connection between the two communities, with ‘sewa’ meaning ‘little’ or ‘small’ in the Ba dialect, leading to the interpretation of the village as ‘little Vadraiyawa.’ Presently, Vadraiyawasewa maintains its distinct identity while serving as a satellite of the larger Lautoka area.
Vadraiyawasewa stands as a testament to the historical migrations that have shaped Fiji’s urban landscape, highlighting the invaluable role of traditional landowners, like those from Naviyago, in accommodating fellow iTaukei seeking progress. The legacy of Ratu Kini Cokanasiga and the resilience of pioneers like Salanieta Vasekai continue to be commemorated by their descendants, who proudly call this place home.
Reflecting on the past 40 years and the recent passing of his mother, Mr. Nasilokia expressed that the village has developed into a tight-knit community guided by faith and family values. He acknowledged the ongoing respect for the vanua and their willingness to support events within Naviyago. Despite many having moved to different parts of Fiji and abroad, the residents remain connected to their roots, cherishing the foundations established by their elders for future generations.
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