From left to right: Daughter, Elenoa Tudravu, wife Litia Tudravu, daughter Milani Tudravu and son, Ilitomasi Tudravu
The late Permanent Secretary for Health, Dr Jemesa Tudravu was known for his character, where he led with humility, listened with patience, and treated colleagues at every level with respect.
This was highlighted by the Minister for Health, Dr Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu, in his eulogy during Dr Tudravu’s funeral at the Centenary Church in Suva.
He says that in true Fijian spirit, Dr Tudravu practised veivakaturagataki and servant leadership, placing the collective good above personal recognition.
Dr Lalabalavu says he was a mentor to many, a steady guide to his teams, and a man whose door always remained open.
The Minister says Dr Tudravu’s life was also anchored in faith, as he understood that leadership is stewardship, and that all service is ultimately service unto God.
He adds that through his actions, the values of integrity, compassion, and perseverance were evident — values deeply rooted in Christian belief and tradition.
Dr Lalabalavu says he walked his journey not seeking praise, but seeking to do what was right.
He says Dr Tudravu was a devoted son of Fiji, a distinguished medical professional, and a seasoned civil servant who served as Permanent Secretary, with a life defined by service, humility, and faith.
He adds that Dr Tudravu answered a calling that few are willing to carry — the calling to serve both people and country, often quietly, often under immense pressure, and always with a deep sense of responsibility.
The Minister says that as Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Dr Tudravu stood at the intersection of policy and people, science and compassion, leadership and service.
He says that throughout his career, Dr Tudravu was guided by the principle that health is not merely a system, but a sacred trust.
Dr Lalabalavu says he worked tirelessly to strengthen Fiji’s health services, improve governance and accountability, and ensure that care reached not only urban centres, but also villages, islands, and the most vulnerable communities.
He adds that his leadership reflected an understanding that every statistic represents a life, every decision a family, and every policy the future.
The Minister says that in times of national challenge, particularly when the health system faced extraordinary strain, Dr Tudravu provided calm, steady, and principled leadership.
He says Dr Tudravu believed in evidence-based decision-making, regional cooperation, and the importance of strong partnerships — within Fiji, across the Pacific, and with international allies.
He adds that Dr Tudravu’s work elevated Fiji’s standing in regional health leadership, while remaining firmly grounded in local realities.
While acknowledging Dr Tudravu’s family, the Minister says the nation’s gain was often their sacrifice, as they shared Dr Tudravu with a country that needed him, supported him through long days and heavy burdens, and stood beside him with love and quiet strength.
He says the passing of Dr Tudravu leaves a significant void in the Ministry of Health, in the public service, and in the life of the nation, but his legacy lives on in the systems he strengthened, the professionals he mentored, the policies he shaped, and the lives he touched.
The late Dr Jemesa Tudravu has been laid to rest at the Lovonilase Cemetery.
