Sivaniolo Lumelume 
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka highlights the legacy of resilience, strength, and unity that has defined Fiji’s history since the era of blackbirding.
While officiating at the 160th-anniversary celebration of the Melanesian community in Suva, Rabuka states that the Melanesian story has become a part of the nation’s collective memory, a testament to resilience and the courage to transform hardship into strength.
He acknowledges the challenges endured during the colonial era and speaks of a path forward marked by unity and progress.
“The Melanesian community’s sense of belonging has laid a foundation for Fiji’s future, a foundation that reflects the hard work, sacrifices, and contributions that have been pivotal to our nation’s development.”
Rabuka urges people to confront the past together and build a stronger future by embracing shared experiences.
He encourages the Melanesian community to rewrite their story and transform those early encounters of adversity into strength.
The Prime Minister hopes that as a community, the Melanesian are committed to unshackling themselves from the vestiges of colonialism to build a future of inclusion and solidarity.
