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From Fiji Times Online (31 May 2012) The show must go on by Kuini Waqasavou* With white sandy beaches, crystal clear blue seas and swaying coconut trees all around the island, Rotuma is heaven here on earth. Once you step foot on the island, time stands still as you are completely mesmerised by the scenic beauty that surrounds the island and its people. Malhaha Village is situated close to the airstrip on the island and is also home to prominent names like the retired Major General George Konrote. With strong Christian values and a strong bond within its people, Malhaha has somewhat or the other been a trend setter with the people of the island. One such person who believes in ethics and bonding is 50-year-old Gagaj Solval Penamena who is one of the chiefs of Malhaha. His easygoing attitude and forever smiling face is known from one corner of the island to the other as they have a deep respect for this hardworking man.
Gagaj Solval moved back to his island home after years of working in mainland Viti Levu. He is now a full-time farmer and believes his new calling is certainly rewarding and worth the living. I dont even know where to begin as farming has so many benefits. I have benefitted physically, spiritually and mentally as farming requires a lot of attention from me, smiled Gagaj Solval. This exercise requires 100 per cent of my attention and whenever I go out to the farm, I make sure that I give all my crops the attention it deserves, said Gagaj Solval. The hardworking chief has been working closely with agriculture officials on the island. For the islanders living here in Rotuma, food security is all that we live for and even though plans to trade with Tuvalu have not started, we are still forging ahead with our planting programs. Things will fall into place but we believe that we must be ready when the time comes, he smiled. Gagaj Solval has been planting varieties of yams, dalo, cassava and varieties of vegetables. A lot of government officials on the island have been buying our produce and when there are big social gatherings, orders for root crops also pour in from the different villages. Like all the other elders on the island, Gagaj Solval hopes to see the quick return of more Rotumans back to their motherland. There are so many Rotumans that have emigrated to Fiji and with its diversified economy, Fiji provides a greater opportunity whereas Rotuma does not, he added. Gagaj Solval went on to say that after young Rotumans leave the island in search of further education and employment they opt to stay on and start new lives for themselves. I guess they feel that they have found better opportunities and it would be better for them to create a new chapter in their lives. For Gagaj Solval, this is not so as there is no place like home. I just could not wait to return to the island as I had so many plans to carry out as well as assist in the running of our district. The first task carried out was of course, the setting up of his farm while other affairs were catered for later. The proud chief says that he wished he could have returned earlier to his homeland as there are so many things to do. Indeed time stands still for visitors that step foot on our shores but for us, it is always hard work first before leisure activities can be carried out. His hard work paid off when he was awarded the Best Kumala Farmer of the Year at the recent Agriculture Show that was held together with the Rotuma Day celebrations in May this year at Ahau government station. It was a shocker for me but I know that I deserved the win, he smiled proudly. The show will not end here as Gagaj Solval has many more plans in the pipeline for his farm as well as for other youths of Malhaha. Hard work is indeed the key to success and I feel that youths of today need to be exposed further into agricultural activities. Fiji is so lucky because many of the farmers are exposed to the latest technologies of farming. We do not have the land capacity to carry out huge commercial farming activities but we have ample space to carry out farming using the best methods which will ensure quality and consistency for our current buyers, added Gagaj Solval. He has plans to go into goat farming as he believes there is a huge demand for goat meat on the island especially during the festive season towards the end of the year. There are so many farming activities that can be carried out here on the island especially with crops and livestock farming. The wise chief says that the determination to succeed will indeed go a long way if youths put their hearts and minds into achieving results. As for Gagaj Solval, all is well because he is living the life of a king on island paradise. * Kuini Waqasavou is an Information staff member at the Ministry of Primary Industries. From Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (29 May 2012) New HTFA treatment plant to boost trade between Rotuma and small island countries The opening of a High Temperature Forced Air Treatment (HTFA) facility on Rotuma by the Minister of Primary Industries Mr Joketani Cokanasiga early this month will help the island trade with other Pacific Island Countries like Tuvalu and Kiribati. The HTFA treatment plant, which cost the Fiji Government and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) approximately $1 million, will provide cost effective quarantine treatment for fruits in Rotuma that are hosts to Bactrocera kirki and Bactrocera obscure fruit fly species and will also facilitate the export of fruits and vegetables to Tuvalu and safe movement of fruits to Viti Levu markets. Rotuma is renowned for its abundance of tropical fruits. However, unfortunately because of biosecurity risks posed by two fruit fly species Bactrocera kirki and Bactrocera obscure, fruits that are host to these fruit flies cannot be exported to other countries until they are in compliant with international and domestic quarantine standards. BAF also intends to use the data and trial results from the Rotuma HTFA to support negotiations on the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BQA) with New Zealand Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry (NZMAF) to include the two fruit fly species found on Rotuma into the existing list of pests in Fiji. Mr Cokanasiga said the HTFA facility will also bring great benefits to the people of Rotuma from foreign exchange earnings, and creation of employment from trade with Tuvalu and other small island states in the region. He said this would improve living standards for the people of Rotuma and also promote sustainable development of resources. The HTFA facility in Rotuma comprises of an office for the administration of facility with its own staff amenities, the Fruit Fly laboratory equipped to perform on site testing and other scientific tests when required, treatment chamber, a cooler room, packing house, an unloading zone and a generator. The installation of the HTFA plant in Rotuma is a component of Government's Rotuma Island Development Programme, which includes facilitating trade with Tuvalu and sustaining food and security for the people of Rotuma. A similar HTFA Treatment facility is also in Nadi and it is running very successfully, through Nature's Way Cooperative. The Minister urged the farmers in Rotuma to utilize the HTFA Treatment plant to the optimum for the growth of the island's economy and for their livelihood. Meanwhile the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) and Department of Agriculture (DOA) staff will continue to carry out awareness and educational programmes on development and biosecurity threats on Rotuma, focusing on sustaining food safety and food security. BAF will also provide border security at Rotuma International Air and Seaports and will assist and train the farmers to comply with the biosecurity protocols of Tuvalu. From Fiji Times Online (27 May 2012) Remember the Kings by Geraldine Panapasa
SISILO. A place where revered sau or kings (as they were known back in the days) of Rotuma are buried. A gravesite in the district of No‘'tau guarding the island's most treasured artefact ù the remains and remnants of high chiefs, who once ruled the island with an iron fist. This would indeed be something the islanders are proud of, the fact that it is still there after many centuries with evidence of early habitants. It's a taboo area today where no one would even dare tread for the fun of it or think about removing what belonged to their forefathers and ancestors. But it was not always this way. Some 27 years ago, there was a bitter feud over the power and right to rule Rotuma, political division regarding the sovereignty of the island community and ownership of ancient artefacts excavated from other burial grounds including the one at Sisilo (an artifact at the centre of much of the 1980s controversy was a sacred shell or cowrie-shell supposedly buried with the last Gagaj Sau Lagfatmaro and possessed by a self-proclaimed leader). I wasn't born then but from archived publications and accounts from those alive today, that quest for power and recognition had moved away from its original aim of 'reviving the true culture, tradition and identity of the people of Rotuma'. It was a time when renowned martial arts expert Henry Gibson or Gagaj Sau Lagfatmaro (king of Rotuma-ma) - as he so openly claimed to be caused quite a stir on the island and Fiji publicly voicing he was the "... King of the Molmahao clan which includes the seven districts in Rotuma" - in other words, the king of Rotuma. The debacle continued from 1983 to October 1989 eventually leading to the trial and guilty verdict of eight men charged with sedition ù a conviction that was later overturned in 1991. Last week, Sisilo was once again at the centre of attention - this time not over conflicting views of who should rule the island, but more or less, about what to keep for the future generation. A field team from the Fiji Museum, upon the request of a community member from Noa'tau, carried out a two-day assessment of the grave site and determine if it would fall under the Fiji Museum's protection under the Archaeological and Paleontological Interest Act. The museum's field research officers and archaeologists Sepeti Matararaba and Sakiusa Kataiwai spent their week-long visit with Rupeti Mani of Noa'tau and his family. "We received a letter from one of the old people from Noa‘tau. "He wanted the site protected because this site is where most of the high chiefs on Rotuma originated. "As far as the museum is aware of, this is also where Henry Gibson had excavated back in the 80s - there was a big case about it," he said. "He excavated this site and uncovered some of the old artifacts belonging to the chiefs who were buried at the site called Sisilo, which is also an ancient village site. "According to the stories we were told at Noa‘tau, when a king dies in their village whether they're from Motusa or any other village (back then chiefs were called kings), they were brought to Sisilo for proper burial ù this is why the area is sacred to the people. "I think Gibson was aware of this sacredness and excavated old artifacts that were buried with the chiefs. "He wanted to uncover his ties and believed the artifacts had powers ù they possessed the powers of the king that died. "Whatever the king owned ù necklaces, armbands, their attire and even their wives ù were buried with him." Mr Matararaba said other grave sites on the island were excavated for the power they supposedly possessed. "The case was settled and nobody was convicted of sedition. When I started at the museum in 1983, our director Fergus Clunie sat me down to explain protocols, what be involved and what happened when he went to Rotuma. The case slowly died out." On the morning of our scheduled visit to Sisilo, Noa‘tau's sub-chief Fonman Inoke decided to accompany our group with Rupeti, and three others. A 10-minute ride up an upgraded farm road led us to our rendezvous point marked by an uto (breadfruit) tree. Another path led us past two billygoats on flat land before tangling our ankles in paragrass and weeds. A little bow here and there through overgrown plants and trees led us to our first find. "This is a sharpening stone for stone tools," Mr Matararaba said, dusting off soil debris and a little moss that covered the surface. "You can tell it's a sharpening stone from the groove markings at the centre. Groove markings are a result of tools being dragged across the stone's surface like this one scouring out a groove or narrow channel. "This is amazing. The early settlers would have used this to sharpen their tools before they used it for hunting or killing." There were no other markings near the first stone until we were called to another spot a few metres up. Before us was an amazing site. Chunks of stone slabs were everywhere, half buried and covered with more moss. It seemed to have broken away from an uplifted fort enclosure. Around the left side of the circular grave site, it became evident that the roots of the tall trees had forced its way through the cement boundary, breaking through the walls of the gravesite. We found more stone slabs lying flat at various spots and while at first glance may have looked like it had been moved by nature over the years, it was something else. "They didn't have tombstones to mark the grave of a king so these flat slabs placed this way could be a grave, likewise with the others placed nearby," Mr Matararaba said. "There are more sharpening stones around here but they're covered with moss and dead leaves." If you didn't move those away, you'd probably think it was just an oddity of nature. At the centre of the gravesite sat what looked to be a stone seat for someone important. "This appears to be a killing ground or something similar. There's another huge flat stone slab at the centre and a seat as if someone was witnessing a killing," Mr Matararaba said. Gagaj Fonman added tribal wars and cannibalism was also rife in the time of their great ancestors. He said it was a time when only the fittest could survive. "Some wives were buried with their kings or their husbands, strangled and placed in the same grave with valuables," Mr Matararaba interjected. "This practise went on until the missionaries came and put a stop to it, placing emphasis on the need to value life," Gagaj Fonman added. Among the shrubs was a four-inch cannon, about a metre long with its nose sitting on two small stones. It was a historical find for Mr Matararaba but a part of history that has long laid insignificant at the gravesite, obviously left to wither away like the other remnants. "This should have been in the museum a long time ago. I don't think we have a cannon like this at the museum so this is a very good find indeed," Mr Matararaba said. "It is an indication of early European settlers. This place could have been a battlefield or war ground as well." With every find, Mr Kataiwai would place a Global Positioning System (GPS) device on the artifact to register its geographical co-ordinates. He explained the GPS data would then be uploaded onto their system allowing them to pinpoint the exact location of each artefact on the map of Rotuma. We are trying to determine where all the other objects that were significant to the site itself are, the burial mount or any monument that was put there for certain purposes or the house mount that is still intact, Mr Matararaba elaborated. We will try to depict that in our drawings, taking pictures and trying to sketch what is on the site itself. It would also serve as a monitoring factor to their objective of ensuring historical sites and relics are safeguarded against the changing tides. From our side, we will have to prepare a report on our findings and request the museum becomes custodians of the site, Mr Matararaba said. We will of course work very closely with the Rotuma Council and the people on the island to help preserve its natural site so that it remains undisturbed. Its important for the people to be aware of this because it is part of their history. We will also work on trying to put up a buffer zone, like a boundary, about 60m around. It will be an out-of-bound area if possible. If there are projects taking place around this buffer zone, then we can reduce the zone down to 30 or 20m. At the end of our visit, Mr Matararaba summed up the challenge for the islanders. The museum could and would only step into help in preservation efforts if the people of the island requested it. The onus then was on the people of Rotuma and the value they placed on their heritage. Today, it would be hard to imagine how esteemed the area was to the people of Rotuma because of the overgrown plentiful trees, plants and vegetation suffocating the path and access to the ancient Sisilo burial ground. For now, it lies in ruin waiting for someone to step in to preserve its natural state. From Sanimeli Maraf in Rotuma (23 May 2012, sent 12 May) Our Rotuma Day celebration this year was a specially enjoyable one. The Police Brass Band was entertaining. They have a style that makes everyone adore them. They were clowning around and our local women enjoyed joining them and acting the fools, but we all enjoyed watching them. We say marmar pau. Juju district performed their traditional hafa after the speech by the chief guest, the Honourable Minister for Primary Industries, Joketani Cokanasiga. The spirtual devotion was by Pastor Sam Motofaga of the Assembly of God Church; he's very good. The chief guest opened the high temperature forced air treatment facility, which was followed by an inspection of the ladies handicraft and the agricultural produce. After the early morning festivities, the women (us) acted as host. Pepjei performed their traditional dance followed by basket weaving and copra cutting competitions. Lunch was hosted at 1pm by Itu‘ti‘u district. Itu‘muta district entertained with a traditional dance after lunch; it was a very enjoyable performance. After that, there was prize giving, retreating of the flag by the police, and singing of the national anthem. We started the celebration on Tuesday, 8 May, when MV Iloilovatu anchored at Oinafa Wharf. Day two: On Wednesday, when the Honorable Minister arrived on the MV Bainitakali he was met by the acting D.O. Rotuma, Etika, son of the late Gagaj Kaotaufon from Motusa; the station officer and the Chairman at Ahau government station. The welcome address was given by Gagaj Maraf. Noa‘tau did the mamasa, and it was a nice one. The mamasa was for (1) the Honourable Minister for Primary Industries, Joketani Cokanasiga; (2) the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Isikeli Ligairi; (3) the Commissioner Eastern, Col. Netani Rika; and (4) the Deputy Secretary for Rotuman Affairs in the Prime Minister's office, Col. Filipe Alfereti. Malha‘a did the dance traditional style. It was lovely to have the police band also. They sang some Rotuman songs and it was very touching, especially the Aisea Nakaora songs. Day three: The Honourable Minister and his entourage visited Itu‘muta, Motusa, Juju, Pepjei, and Malha‘a, and talked with the people they met. Day four: The Police Brass Band gave us a surprise. They came to Noa‘tau and performed in the hot sun. There were 30 or more of them and they looked very smart. First they played in Faifaisina because young Jieni, Rosemary and Visoni's daughter joined the police force. She just left school two years ago. She looks very nice in uniform. Then they came to Maraf. We supplied them with cold drinks and sandwiches. After taking refreshments they went to Juju because the band master is married to a woman from Juju. Tomorrow is Mothers' Day. There will be a church service at the Ahau pavillion and lunch will be provided by the Council. The tour leaves for Suva at 4pm, arriving in Suva on 15 May. From Fiji Times Online (23 May 2012) Funky island tunes by Geraldine Panapasa
THE Fiji Police Force (FPF) dance bands definitely got everyone in the spirit of the Rotuma Day celebrations last week when they played several funky tunes in the local lingo. What surprised many was the effort by the iTaukei singers in the band to pronounce each word in Rotuman with ease and pride while keeping to the beat of popular songs by Hanisi Maloney and Freddy Kado, and other Rotuman artists. Sergeant-Major David Josaia from Itumuta was in charge of the FPF dance band No.2. "There are actually three bands but we're number two. "We are about eight in the band including the technician," he said on the island last week. "We sang five songs in Rotuman - popular ones that are played and heard over the radio. "In some instances we changed the tune but kept the lyrics, tweeked it a bit to suit a groovy mood. "It wasn't that hard to pronounce the words. The members were given the lyrics to sing and they practised until it was perfected." Of the lot, Sgt Luisa Wakani, the lead female vocalist was impressive. She accompanied the band to a social event at the Itu'muta hall and sang her heart out much to the content of the islanders. When she belted some vude songs at the Government station grounds in Ahau, the crowd applauded, some using the open space as their dancing floor minus the disco lights. "Some musicians are from Vanua Levu, others are musicians in their own right," Sergeant-Major Josaia. "Usually at top government functions or events, we're called to provide entertainment and it's a real boost for our musicians. "For us, it's all in the music when we're performing together. It's how each person feels when they're playing their part in the band - when they play their instrument or singing, they put all their effort into providing a grand performance from the heart. "Sometimes we would change the lyrics for a popular beat and sing it in the iTaukei language - when we see the positive reaction from people, it gives us a sense of confidence in our musical talents." During a traditional welcoming ceremony for the government officials on the island last week, the Fiji Police Band marched in unison towards the centre of the grounds playing and dancing to various beats. A few locals shared in the light moment making their way to the band to mimic a few movements before stealing the spotlight and leaving the island community in laughter. The band members didn't mind because their music in a way had put smiles on the faces of the Rotuman people who eventually shared their appreciation at the end of the day's meet. "We came last year and one of the oldies told us he enjoyed our music. He would tell us when a better band had come around - until then we had done our job," he said. Before leaving the Oinafa jetty, the band members made their way to the top deck of the MV Iloilovatu to sing a touching 'Isa Lei' as they bade farewell to the people of Rotuma. With arms in the air, the people returned the gesture blowing kisses and waving goodbye until the boat was out of sight. From Fiji Times Online (18 May 2012) It's worth the sacrifice by Geraldine Panapasa
AMELIA Vonokula sat scraping off the leftover husk from a young coconut, her eyes following passersby waiting for that nod of approval. Her sack of coconuts was near empty in a red wheelbarrow beside a wooden table where her bhajiya and roti parcels were placed for sale. Her companion and market vendor Litiana Talebula-Fereti sat a pace away looking out for potential customers. Unlike Litiana, Amelia came across as quiet and timid but if there was a word to describe her life, it's hardworking. From Naqia Village, Wainibuka in Tailevu, Amelia is married to Irava Jare and lives in Motusa on Rotuma. "I grew up in Tailevu and went to Naqia Primary School and later Navesau Secondary," she said sharing a bit about her life on the island. "I came from Fiji in 1999 and go back and forth every now and then. I started selling here recently farming vegetables and selling them things like long beans, cabbage, corn and even cucumber. "I notice that not many Rotumans are comfortable selling at the marketplace. There are times when it's only Litiana and I. "But we're not embarrassed or ashamed of selling our produce because it's income for our families." Amelia has four children, three in Fiji and another in Form Four at Rotuma High School. She has a child in vocational school, another in Form Two at Naqia Seventh-day Adventist and one in Form Five at Navesau. "Just like Litiana, the money I earn here goes to their education and needs in Fiji," said the 47-year old. "I'm still trying to perfect the language but I've grown to love their culture as well. "I've made a lot of friends and when they teach me their language, I return the favour by teaching them the iTaukei language and sometimes songs in my own language. "The island is very hot and when I can't take the heat, I go down to the nearby river or sea to cool off. "I love staying on Rotuma but I eventually miss my boys in Fiji." She collects coconuts or bu and uses whatever ingredients she has for confectionary like bhajia and roti parcels. Amelia says farming is one of the main activities on the island. "You really have to work hard to survive because that's what island life is all about," she said. "You don't have the luxuries in Fiji - here you have to adapt to the lifestyle and it can be very overwhelming. "But I love Rotuma and I love the people. I've made so many good friends and they're all very helpful." At the end of a normal business day, Amelia and her friends at the marketplace can be seen strolling along the sandy roads heading home a common ritual for many commuters. She doesn't mind at all because she says sacrifices like these provide her children with a better future. Rotuma Day Photos (17 May 2012) Rotuma Day Celebration in Suva (photos by Antoine N‘Yeurt) Rotuma Day Celebration at Ahau, Rotuma (photos by John Bennett) From Fiji Times Online (17 May 2012) Busy life on Rotuma by Geraldine Panapasa
NOA'IA was the reply from a woman sitting at the marketplace to passers-by in Ahau, the government station on Rotuma. A smile instantly followed the local greeting on the island as she stood up to check on her handicraft and colourful accessories for sale on a wooden table. Litiana Talebula-Fereti, originally from Waiqori Village, Oneata in Lau, lives with her husband in Motusa, a village in the district of Itu'ti'u. For a couple of years now, she has been selling her wares to help her husband support their family. "I grew up in Suva and worked at Fiji Meats before I got married in 1984. I moved to Rotuma with my husband and had two of my five kids before moving back to Fiji in 1987," she said taking a break from work. "It was hard at first adapting to life on the island especially with the language and cultural barrier. "As time passed, I learnt the language and the culture. "We came back to the island in 1999. I had five children and each of them I helped support through self-employment. "My son Jeffrey Jone was the dux at Monfort last year. "Whatever I earn from selling here goes towards my children's education." Feathered hairpieces, artificial tekiteki, earrings and hairclips were up for sale when government officials officially arrived at Ahau last week on Wednesday for the traditional welcoming ceremony. Other days are either for selling roti and vegetables. She even makes time to go to the jetty in the district of Oinafa to sell her produce. "I learnt how to make the tekiteki and other handicraft when I was in Fiji so I started making them here to sell," said the 47-year-old. "Some women used to sell here at the market but when we came, it died down a bit. "In a day, I can make $30-$40 selling roti parcels and vegetables. When a boat arrives at the jetty, I can make more than $100. "I do this for my family because I know times are hard. I was able to pay for my children's education in Fiji. I know that it's all worth the sacrifice. "The only thing with life on the island is hard work you have to really work hard on the land to survive." Litiana says she's grown to love the island life but at times finds herself missing her family. "I try my best to always keep in touch with them but I love Rotuma and I love the people here," she said. "Even though some of them don't think of selling at the market, for me, this is a source of livelihood. "If it helps my husband support our family then it's good enough for me." Litiana says she's made a lot of friends over the years and wouldn't trade anything for the very laid-back lifestyle. From Fiji Sun (15 May 2012; published 11 May) Homebrew-free Rotuma By Losalini Rasoqsoqo
Rotuma Island is homebrew-free. And it has been in this state since 2010, after police cracked down on those involved in brewing and consumption. Island station officer, Inspector Semi Rasiga, said Rotuma recorded a homebrew-free festive season in 2010 and 2011. Inspector Rasiga said this had promoted a crime-free festive season in the island, a move regarded as a milestone achievement for the force. He said the monitoring of homebrew by the police was carried out in partnership with community leaders at district level. “It is within their quest to maintain law and order on the island. “And as such, there was no homebrew-related case for our hospital recorded during these festive seasons unlike in previous years and I thank the chiefs and the people,” he said. From Fiji Times Online (14 May 2012) Keep it green, group advocates by Geraldine Panapasa
IN an effort to preserve the natural environment on Rotuma, the Laje Rotuma Initiative group set up an awareness booth at the Rotuma Day celebrations in Ahau. Laje Rotuma Initiative's Rupeti Vafo'ou said they hoped to shed light on climate change and its impact on the islanders and their livelihood while emphasising the need to preserve their unique biodiversity. "We had pictures of our previous workshops and community outreach programs to advocate for the maintenance and preservation of our natural environment," he told The Fiji Times. "We work closely with the community with our preservation programs, and so far the interest has been overwhelming. Mr Vafo'ou said the children were very eager to see pictures of the environment. "We gave them some activities to do like colouring images related to the environment and eco-friendly story books," he said. The group also attracted the little ones through their face-painting activity throughout the day. Early in the week, Laje Rotuma organised a community workshop on climate change and the impact of tourism on the island. Community members voiced their opinion on the issues they felt were sensitive to their culture and livelihood. From Fiji Times Online (14 May 2012) Positive developments by Geraldine Panapasa Addressing the community of Rotuma at the government station in Ahau, Primary Industries Minister Joketani Cokanasiga said Rotuma had come a long way in achieving its promise for positive change. Mr Cokanasiga was chief guest at the annual Rotuma Day celebrations. He was seated alongside the district chiefs of the island, Commissioner Eastern Colonel Netani Rika, Rotuma district officer Nicholas Ting, Rotuma Council chairman Tarterani Rigamoto and deputy Police Commissioner Isikeli Ligairi. "In terms of good governance, the strategic priorities include ensuring effective, enlightened and accountable leadership," Mr Cokanasiga said. "The Rotuma Island Development Program established by government in 2008 provides the platform for the implementation of socio-economic programs on the island and is supported by other new initiatives that government has put in place. "The Rotuma island economy is agro-based. Its small size makes it vulnerable to any slight biosecurity and environmental incident." He said the arms of government including biosecurity, agriculture and fisheries were aimed at facilitating trade with Tuvalu an integral component of the Rotuma Development Program. "It promotes export and import substitution that will help sustain food and income security while reducing poverty for the people of this island," Mr Cokanasiga said. "The declaration of Rotuma as an international port of entry will assist the facilitation of trade with Tuvalu and other neighbouring countries and in time to come facilitate other activities like tourism and other small business ventures. "Several specific projects undertaken under the biosecurity agriculture and fisheries components in the past years had focused on the development of biosecurity strategies in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) to facilitate the export of agricultural produce from Rotuma to Tuvalu." Mr Cokanasiga said the government would continue to develop domestic legislation, standards and protocols in compliance with international standards to facilitate agri-produce export for Fiji. Other projects include awareness and educational programs on agri-development and biosecurity threats in Rotuma, provision of border security at the Rotuma international air and sea ports of entry, development and promotion of coconut and sandalwood on the island and initiatives to support fisheries development under the marine-based resources development programs. Mr Cokanasiga said the establishment of the new High Temperature Forced Air Treatment facility at the government station would ease trade of fruits and vegetables with Tuvalu and Samoa.
From Fiji Times Online (14 May 2012) New lab to assist island trade by Geraldine Panapasa In his keynote address while opening the HTFA plant at the government station at Ahau, Primary Industries Minster Joketani Cokanasiga said through these agreements they hoped to include the two fruit fly species found on Rotuma Bactrocera kirki and Bactrocera obscure on the existing list of Fiji pests. "The HTFA facility will also bring great benefits to the people of Rotuma from foreign exchange earnings and creation of employment from export trade with Tuvalu and other small island states in the region," he said. "This will improve living standards for the people of Rotuma and also promote sustainable development of resources." The facility comprises an office for the administration of the facility with its own staff amenities, the fruit fly laboratory equipped to perform on-site testing and other scientific tests when required, treatment chamber, a cooler room, packing house, an unloading zone and a generator. "Government has invested almost $1million in this project and we are confident of its success," Mr Cokanasiga said. "We have a similar HTFA facility in Nadi and it is running very successfully through Nature's Way Co-operative. Over the past decade, Nature's Way Co-operative has grown from a small business handling just 30 tonnes of papaya to an agribusiness treatment of 1200 tonnes annually for export. "The range of fruits has also increased from papaya to mango, eggplant and breadfruit. "Nature's Way Co-operative generates $2million annually in export earnings and $800,000 in farmer income." Mr Cokanasiga acknowledged Dr Mike Williamson and the Quarantine Technologies International, NZ for their assistance in installing the HTFA chamber. He said the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) and Department of Agriculture staff would continue to carry out awareness and educational programs on development and biosecurity threats on Rotuma, focusing on sustaining food safety and security. He said BAF would provide border security at Rotuma International Air and Seaports and will assist and train the farmers to comply with the biosecurity protocols of Tuvalu.
From Fiji Times Online (13 May 2012) Deterioration of culture a concern by Torika Tokalau Rotumans celebrated the second day of their three-day celebration of Rotuma Day at the Tattersals Leisure Centre yesterday with the theme Rotuman cultural heritage through sharing and nurturing. "I remember going to a rugby game featuring a Rotuman team and while discussing the game plan, these Rotumans were speaking the iTaukei language," said Mr Furivai. "So many young people these days are losing the Rotuman culture. "It is a worrying concern because we want to make sure our culture stays with us in years to come." He said parents should speak the Rotuman language to their children and the elders to continue in guiding the younger Rotuman language speakers. "At next year's Rotuma Day celebrations, I would love to see more attendance from the younger people and for the young people to come up with their own Rotuman dances," he said. The Rotuma Day celebrations end today at a church service at Rewa St at 3pm.
From Fiji Times Online (13 May 2012) Rotuma has capacity by Geraldine Panapasa He made the comment at the official opening of the HTFA plant in Ahau yesterday. The installation of the HTFA plant on the island is a component of government's Rotuma Island Development Program which includes facilitating trade with Tuvalu and sustaining food safety and security for the islanders. Mr Cokanasiga said it would help sustain the island community's livelihood. From Fijilive (13 May 2012) Biosecurity unit to boost Rotuma trade The opening of a high temperature forced air treatment facility on Rotuma will help the island trade with island countries like Tuvalu and Kiribati, says Minister for Primary Industries Joketani Cokanasiga. Cokanasiga said the HTFA treatment facility will improve the export of Rotuman crops to Tuvalu and later to Kiribati and other regional countries. He said Rotuma being declared an international port of entry also opened up opportunities for small business and tourism. Cokanasiga was on Rotuma for the 131st Rotuma Day anniversary celebrations at Ahau Government station. "This is a relationship that was forged by our chiefs for a 'Viti kei Rotuma' (Fiji and Rotuma)," he said. By Farzana Nisha From The Jet Online (12 May 2012) Unity moves Rotuma forward Fiji's Minister for Primary Industries Mr Joketani Cokanasiga today opened the 131st Rotuma Day Anniversary celebrations at Ahau Government station on the remote island of Rotuma.
At today's occasion, Minister Cokanasiga highlighted to guests including those that had travelled to the island, that the occasion provides all Fijians the opportunity to renew and strengthen the historical ties between Fiji and Rotuma. "This is a relationship that was forged by our chiefs for a 'Viti kei Rotuma' (Fiji and Rotuma)", Minister Cokanasiga said. The Minister called on the people of Rotuma to reflect on the theme of this year's celebration, 'Unity moves Rotuma Forward'. "My fervent prayer for Rotuma and the people of the island to make it work, forge ahead together and let it prosper," he said. He also reiterated the Fijian government's commitment to Rotuma "as enshrined under the Roadmap to Democracy and Sustainable Socio-Economic Development". Highlighting Rotuma's vast resources including its rich volcanic soil which has the potential to produce high yield and increased agricultural production, Minister Cokanasiga said this provides an opportunity to stimulate trade between Rotuma and other parts of the country. "Under the Fiji Government's social development vision, the focus for development includes reducing poverty, avoiding early school dropouts, quality education and improving health." "It is the platform for implementation of socio economic programmes on the island and is supported by other new initiatives that the government has put in place". The Minister today also opened the High Temperature Forced Air Treatment (HTFA) to facilitate trade not only between Rotuma and other parts of Fiji but also with other island countries. "The declaration of Rotuma as an international port of entry and the facilitation of trade between Tuvalu and Rotuma will also open up opportunities for small business and tourism." He said the development of Bio security on the island in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) to facilitate the trade between the two countries and boarder control development will help Rotuma achieve this. Minister Cokanasiga said the idea of trade between Rotuma and Tuvalu was initiated by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama. "This resulted in trade consultation with Tuvalu, and other Pacific islands in the near future. So the installation of the HTFA treatment facility will improve the export of Rotuman crops to Tuvalu and later to Kiribati and other regional countries and help sustain the island's economy," Minister Cokanasiga said.
From Fiji Times Online (12 May 2012) Traditional welcome to Rotuma for State officials by Geraldine Panapasa GOVERNMENT officials were accorded a traditional Rotuman welcome on Wednesday arriving a day before for the Rotuma Day celebrations today. Led by Primary Industries Minister Joketani Cokanasiga, the civil servants arrived at the government station in Ahau at about 10am and spent a few minutes with Commissioner Eastern Colonel Netani Rika at the district officer's home. The pre-Independence Day celebrations on the island began with a mamasa hosted by Noatau and traditional dance by Malha'a. Rotuma Council chairman Tarterani Rigamoto said they were privileged to have the minister and his delegation on the island for the special annual celebration. "It's great to have them here. The mamasa is a traditional ceremony to mark the drying of the feet of visitors to our island after days at sea," he said. "To have them here with us is great." Col. Rika said a tour of government projects started on Thursday culminating in the much-anticipated celebration in Ahau.
From Fiji Times Online (12 May 2012) Rotumans urged to celebrate their special day byTorika Tokalau "We have such an exciting program for everyone to enjoy," chairperson of host district, Juju Agatha Ferei said. The first day of Rotuma Day was held yesterday with the day especially dedicated to the young people from Rotuma. Celebrations included competitions in basket weaving, cultural act, coconut husking and scraping, traditional way of lighting a fire using sticks and a farmers competition. "The highlight of day-one was the kirkirsasa and comtemporary dance from the USP Rotuman Students Association," Mrs Ferei said. "Tomorrow (today) we have even better programs with a competition of cultural dancing from the seven districts in Rotuma." Day-two of Rotuma Day celebrations will begin at 9am. This year's theme is 'Rotuman cultural heritage through sharing and nurturing'. From The Jet Online (12 May 2012) Rotuma Day celebrations on track Rotumans will once again celebrate the colorful Rotuma Day Celebration later this month. This year marks the 131st anniversary since the island was ceded to Great Britain. Rotuma District Officer Etika Taukave said the 3-day celebration is always a time that Rotumans look forward to every year. "Seven districts on the island will come together and display traditional artifacts and there will be competition on traditional ways of doing things and dances," Taukave said. Minister for Primary Industries Mr Joketani Cokanasiga will officiate the opening of the Rotuma Day celebration on the island. Minister Cokanasiga will also have the opportunity to visit completed projects and ongoing Government projects on the island. During the recent Rotuman Development meeting with the Commissioner Eastern Netani Rika reiterated the need for sustainable development on the island. "Proposed programmes and projects need to to be relevant, meaningful, and sustainable and together we will need to identify the constraints and come up with viable economic activities and initiatives which would be people and environment friendly," Rika said. The Rotuma Island Priority Government projects for 2012-2014 include the upgrading of the Rotuma airport, Rotuma Hospital, Rotuma High School and the expansion of the electrification grid. This year's celebration will also include the Rotuma Expo where business houses will promote their products to the people, encourage brand loyalty and network with Rotumans. From Fiji Times Online (12 May 2012) Mix-up in travel list by Geraldine Panapasa Speaking to The Fiji Times on Rotuma, Col. Rika made reference to an incident last Sunday in which several passengers bound for Rotuma from Suva were left disappointed that their names did not appear on the passenger list of the MV Iloilovatu. Col. Rika addressed the obviously frustrated crowd at the government shipping services wharf that they had approved only one list of passengers ù those who had given their names directly to the Commissioner Eastern's office. "What happened was that all the names should have come from the commissioner's office. We would then give approval and tell the Government Shipping Services to collect fares. These are wee things we need to improve," he said. "I've always emphasised to my staff that we are here to serve the people and we need to improve customer service. We are paid by the people of this country to serve them and most of the time customer service is very poor ù that's one area I'm working on." Col. Rika emphasised the efforts of many in the maritime zone for paying their fare back home only to be disappointed by the lack of commitment to customer service. "Once we have the right mentality, we can serve the people well. For those on the outer island, I think we need to prepare them well for development." From John Taito in Navua, Fiji (11 May 2012) The Rotuman farmers in Navua will be celebrating their 10th Annual Foodshow in 30 days time, on Saturday 9th June, 2012. The eight competitors have been spending endless hours in the garden (rain or sun) nurturing their crops to ensure they reach the anticipated maximum weight and length by competition day. A few made the journey to the Tatterselle Gymnasium yesterday, Friday to witness the Suva Seven Districts Foodshow - ua‘ek ti‘ se gagaj fa ne Suva e hao te keleag leilei. Further inspired, they returned to Navua and spent the whole rainy afternoon in their gardens. Competitors 2012:
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From Fiji Sun (10 May 2012) Govt boat to service Rotuma By Losalini Rasoqsoqo A government vessel is expected to service Rotuma after transportation problems to the island were raised with the office of the Commissioner Eastern. Commissioner Eastern Lieutenant-Colonel Netani Rika said the arrangements would be made for a Government vessel to service the island on a quarterly basis. Rotuma is serviced once a month by the MV Lady Sandy under the Government franchise scheme – the boat fare of $185 per head for one way. "An issue brought to light is the transport difficulty to and from the island and we are seriously looking at addressing the issue," Lieutenant-Colonel Rika said. "The transportation cost is expensive for a normal person and I am planning to make arrangements for a Government vessel to visit the island on a quarterly basis. "The distance is the disadvantage. Economically, Rotuma is not viable which is the reason why the fare under the franchise scheme is expensive," he said. Lieutenant-Colonel Rika also revealed that getting a Roll on Roll off (RORO) ferry will also be an advantage for the people. The RORO ferry will be used to transport vehicles and equipment. From Pacific Islands News Association (10 May 2012) Rotuma chief rejects Tuvalu trade By Online Editor A Rotuma high chief does not approve of agriculture trade between Tuvalu and Rotuma. Gagaj Maraf, Faga Kemueli Solomone, believes that the island has less land and it's only limited for its people. Solomone, a former senator, told the Fiji SUN that while they supported helping their neighbouring islands, their island has little to offer. He said what they produced on the island was only enough for the people. "I believe that God did not create Rotuma to provide agriculture products for other places. "The land is not enough. You look around and you will see that this is a small island. It can only provide for the more than 2000 people or so living on the island. "What happens if Rotumans living abroad come back to the island?" He said the trade initiated by Tuvalu was another way of reviving old ties. "We have connections with Tuvalu. Apart from inter-marriages, Tuvalu and Rotuma are close to each other and we have historical ties. "That is one of the reasons why we supported this trade. I visited the island and saw that it is underwater as the result of rise of sea level and I felt sorry for them. "And then again, our island is small and we will not be able to meet the agricultural demands to cater for both the people of Tuvalu and our people," he said. Comment by Antonio Muera Tanu (3 June) and by Henry Enasio (11 June) From Fiji Sun (10 May 2012) Traditional welcome at Rotuma By Losalini Rasoqsoqo The traditional welcome ceremony for those arriving on Rotuma for the first time was conducted yesterday at the Government Station in A‘hau, ahead of the Rotuma Day celebrations on Saturday. The 'mamasa' saw the presentation of traditional gifts and food to the visitors on the island before a big feast was carried on the main lawn. Each visitor was delegated a woman to wait on him or her while eating. Entertainment in the form of traditional dances was performed for the visitors. Here on the island, Rotumans from all over the world gathered for the Rotuma Day celebrations. The annual event will end on Sunday with a church service at A‘hau, in the district of Itu‘tiu. Rotuma Day is usually celebrated on May 13 commemorating the day Rotuma was ceded to Great Britain. Minister for Primary Industries and acting Minister for Defence Joketani Cokanasiga will be chief guest at the celebrations. Members of the Fiji Police Force band have also travelled to the island to provide entertainment. Rotuma has seven districts namely Noatau, Oinafa, Malha‘a, Itu‘tiu, Juju, Pepjei and Itumuta. From The Jet Online (4 May 2012) Rotuma Day celebrations on track Rotumans will once again celebrate the colorful Rotuma Day Celebration later this month. This year marks the 131st anniversary since the island was ceded to Great Britain. Rotuma District Officer Etika Taukave said the 3-day celebration is always a time that Rotumans look forward to every year. "Seven districts on the island will come together and display traditional artifacts and there will be competition on traditional ways of doing things and dances," Taukave said. Minister for Primary Industries Mr Joketani Cokanasiga will officiate the opening of the Rotuma Day celebration on the island. Minister Cokanasiga will also have the opportunity to visit completed projects and ongoing Government projects on the island. During the recent Rotuman Development meeting with the Commissioner Eastern Netani Rika reiterated the need for sustainable development on the island. "Proposed programmes and projects need to to be relevant, meaningful, and sustainable and together we will need to identify the constraints and come up with viable economic activities and initiatives which would be people and environment friendly," Rika said. The Rotuma Island Priority Government projects for 2012-2014 include the upgrading of the Rotuma airport, Rotuma Hospital, Rotuma High School and the expansion of the electrification grid. This year's celebration will also include the Rotuma Expo where business houses will promote their products to the people, encourage brand loyalty and network with Rotumans. |
