Nukulau Island is a historic monument for the Girmitiyas

Nukulau Island is a significant historic monument for Girmitiyas in Fiji, as it became a quarantine depot before dispersing the labourers to plantations in other parts of the country.

Minister for Health, Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu says on behalf of the iTaukei people, they would like to say that today is a long time coming to recognise the deeds of the indentured labourers.

Girmit celebration chair and Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Sashi Kiran says Nukulau island has a particular significance to them.

Kiran says more than 60,000 of their ancestors landed on Nukulau Island for quarantine for about four to six weeks before being dispersed to the plantations.

She says it's important for them to know their history and what is their identity.

A delegation visited Nukulau today to put up a board to recognise the first landing and quarantine site for the indentured labourers. There are also plans for an eco tourism launch.

The public girmit exhibition showcasing 144 years of history is underway at Albert Park from today to Sunday.

There are traditional food stalls, rides, cooking competitions and arts shows at Albert Park.

There will also be a special program from 7pm to 9pm tonight called Jhankaar Beats featuring girmit compositions and special guest artists.

From 10am to 1pm tomorrow, there will also be a girmit sports program at Albert Park and from 6pm to 9pm, there will be girmit folk performances. On Sunday, the girmit exhibition will continue and there will be Indian cultural performances at Albert Park.

The thanksgiving and national reconciliation service, where the members of the public are also invited, will be held from 2pm to 4pm Sunday at the Vodafone Arena.

A girmit attire show is also planned from 7pm to 9pm on Sunday.

On girmit day public holiday on Monday, the girmit parade starts from the Suva Flea Market to Albert Park at 8am.

The official program will be held from 9am to 1.30pm.

A girmit conference will also be held from tomorrow to Saturday at USP.