Fijivillage
NEWS SPORTS IN DEPTH
2 April, 2026, 10:16 pm
Central - 26°C Rain
2 April, 2026, 10:16 pm Central - 26°C Rain

Kiribati President hails Fijian culture as a beacon of Pacific heritage

Kiribati President hails Fijian culture as a beacon of Pacific heritage

By Marika Rasekaseka
28/01/2025

Kiribati President Taneti Maamau has praised the enduring strength of Fijian culture, describing it as a testament to the nation's rich heritage and a source of pride for the Pacific.

While speaking during the traditional welcoming ceremony, President Maamau highlighted the beauty and authenticity of Fijian traditions, particularly the presentation of the tabua (whale's tooth) and associated rituals.

The Kiribati President received a tabua as a Qaloqalovi and a yaqona as the national sevusevu or welcome, a wase ni magiti vakaturaga, and i-vaka-tale.

In his address, Maamau says they are proud to witness the true essence of the Fijian culture, which he described as incredibly rich and diverse.

Reflecting on the experience, President Maamau expressed gratitude for the Pacific's distance from the complexities of the modern world, emphasizing the importance of preserving cultural identity.

He stressed that everyone must work to protect the region’s cultural treasures, ensuring they endure for future generations to cherish.

FEATURE NEWS
GCC wants 'Fijian' name to be reserved for iTaukei and GCC to be appointing authority for President and VP
The Great Council of Chiefs has made a number of recommendations in its submission to amend the 2013 Constitution which includes that the GCC is to b...
4 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
JSC exploring options regarding FICAC Commissioner position
As the Judicial Services Commission’s recommendation to the President regarding the FICAC Commissioner position is still on hold until it considers ...
4 hours ago

Whippy remanded for alleged trespassing at Govt Building
Justin Whippy, who is charged with one count of trespassing at the Government Building, has been remanded in custody. He appeared before Magistrate ...
5 hours ago

Suva Grammar students urged to lead fight against waste as recycling programme rolls out
Students at Suva Grammar School are being urged to take responsibility for keeping their school and environment clean as part of efforts to address ...
6 hours ago

Rishikul Sanatan College donates $1,350 for children living with cancer
Rishikul Sanatan College has donated $1,350 to support the Communications Fiji Foundation appeal for children living with cancer.In an interview with ...
6 hours ago

Temporary traffic disruptions expected in Sigatoka Town due to FRA works
Vehicles travelling through Sigatoka Town are being advised to expect temporary disruptions as the Fiji Roads Authority carries out scheduled road ...
6 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH

Fiji Sports Council Saga: Minister ready to repay business class air fare for wife as concerns grow about Sports Council deals
I was invited to travel to New Zealand by the Fiji Sports Council for a grassroots 7s tournament in 2024, I travelled business class but it was ...
27 days ago

TOP