Thirty-two people who have contributed to Fiji’s development and progress in the past 50 years were today awarded with commemorative medals for Fiji’s 50th anniversary of independence by President Jioji Konrote.
They include Acting Chief Justice Kamal Kumar, Tui Macuata and Chairman of the Fiji Pine Group of Companies Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Vuda Chief and Former Prime Minister Ratu Tevita Momoedonu, the President of the Methodist Church of Fiji Reverend Doctor Epineri Vakadewavosa, High Court Judge Justice Anjala Wati, Former Chairman of Fiji Airways Gerald Barrack, Former Pacific sprint champion and Olympian Joseph Rodan Senior and Fiji Bati coach, Jo Rabele Dakuitoga who guided the Fiji Bati to the Rugby League World Cup semifinals in 2008 and was an assistant coach when they reached the semis in 2013 and 2017.
Dr Paula Bavou Nakabe, Archie Seeto, Maria Dotton, Reverend Keperieli Duana Lawedrau, Dr Apolonia Tamata, Adi Salaseini Kavu Lesuma Fong, Semi Matalau, Isikeli Bobo Raisuni, Takehito Inoue, Tamarisi Yabaki, Mere Tuikoro, Ulamila Nokelevu, Kokhela Devi Naicker, Mosese Vakatalai Semi, Luisa Nakakuca, Panipasa Matailevu, Pasirio Samisoni, Iliesa Irava, Wei Qiang Situ, Savendra Dayal, Fane Volatabu, Walliama Swammy, Alipate Ratumaitavuki and Suliasi Naulivou also received awards.
