Fijian Community in Solomon Islands celebrate Fiji Day
A second-generation Fijian living in the Solomon Islands, Tamana Kativerata, is encouraging young Fijians and those with Fijian ties in the country to remain engaged with the Solomon Islands Fijian Community, as only a few of the original families remain.
Mr. Kativerata joined members of the Fijian community in Honiara today at the Don Bosco Institute during an event marking Fiji Day celebrations.
Reflecting on his years in the Solomon Islands, Kativerata shared that this year’s celebration is an emotional one for him.
“There are only a few of us second-generation Fijians left in the country. Most have moved away,” he said.
“But today brings back so many memories for us. Most of us were here during 1970. When Fiji gained independence, there was a huge celebration held at the site where Lawson Tama Stadium now stands. We were just little kids at the time.”
Children from the Solomon Islands-Fiji Community cutting the Independence cake.
“So today is not just a celebration, but it’s a remembrance of our forefathers and grandparents who paved the way for us,” he added.
He urged all Fijians and those with Fijian connections in the Solomon Islands to be part of the community, to strengthen ties and show pride in their heritage.
“We will be having our Annual General Meeting next week, and I call on those who have not yet joined the association to please come and be part of it,” Kativerata said.
This year, the Solomon Islands Fijian Community organized few activities including a visit to the National Referral Hospital on Friday, a formal celebration and sporting activities today, and a Thanksgiving service scheduled for tomorrow at Wesley United Church in Honiara.
President of the Association, Kata Ziru, said this year’s celebration is an opportunity to pass on cultural values to the younger generation, especially through the Fijian spirit of giving, as shown by their outreach to the National Referral Hospital.
Solomon Islands-Fiji Community Association President, Kata Ziru.
She added that it is also a time to show gratitude to the Solomon Islands.
“One of the common sentiments shared by our members is the deep gratitude we feel toward the Solomon Islands for hosting us, whether we are here for business, work, or to build a life,” Ziru said.
The Republic of Fiji gained its independence from Britain on 10th October 1970.
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