Severe funding constraints have prompted the Fiji Museum to intensify its fundraising efforts and partnerships as it works to expand its collection storage, complete its digitisation project and carry out other major capital works.
Fiji Museum CEO Armando Lowe says despite the funding challenges, the Museum continues to build networks and partnerships to support its work as one of Fiji and the Pacific’s leading cultural institutions.
Lowe says over the past 18 months, one of their key strategies has been to build the capacity of their team, engage with key stakeholders and create greater awareness of the Museum and its work.
He says as Fiji’s national museum, they will continue to highlight the importance of supporting the cultural sector.
Lowe has acknowledged the support provided by the Government through the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts and the Department of Culture, Heritage and Arts, as well as support from international agencies and the donor community.
He says the Museum also recognises the need to grow its own revenue streams through admission fees, sales from the Fiji Museum shop, hiring out its veranda as an event space and rental income from the Ginger Cafe.
Meanwhile, the Fiji Museum is also strengthening its international partnerships and profile through participation in international conferences.
Fiji Museum Archaeological Services Manager Mereoni Camailakeba is expected to deliver a keynote address at the International Congress of Maritime Museums in Sydney.
Her presentation will focus on community engagement through underwater archaeology and the cultural significance of shipwrecks, sacred maritime landscapes and traditional seafaring knowledge in shaping historical understanding and contemporary identity.
Lowe says Camailakeba’s presentation will position Fiji as an active contributor to global discussions on maritime heritage and on inclusive, locally grounded and sustainable approaches to community engagement.
He says participating in international forums also helps highlight the importance of the Museum’s work and provides opportunities to network with other cultural and heritage institutions.
Lowe will also deliver a presentation on the Pacific Islands Museums Association and update conference participants on plans to revive the association in Fiji.
The Museum says it engages with more than 60,000 local and international visitors each year through its exhibitions and programmes.
