From Fiji Times (18 May 2025)

PM launches Starlink satellite internet in Rotuma

PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka commissioned the upgraded government quarters for the district officer (DO) Rotuma and launched the Starlink satellite internet at the Government Station in Ahau last week.

This was part of the Coalition Government's commitment to improving service delivery and connectivity in one of Fiji's most remote islands.

The event, held alongside the Rotuma Day celebrations, was attended by senior government officials, community leaders, and donor and development partners, including representatives from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which funded the Starlink project through the Governance for Resilient Development in the Pacific (Gov4Res) Programme, with support from the Australian and Korean governments.

The upgraded DO Rotuma quarters was one of two government residences recently refurbished at a combined cost of approximately $0.5million.

Delivering his remarks at the commissioning, Prime Minister Rabuka said the two initiatives reflected the Government's broader vision of building a more inclusive, connected, and resilient rural Fiji.

"We reaffirm our commitment to our people in Rotuma and to all those serving in our most remote locations," Mr Rabuka said.

"These quarters provide our officers with a safe and dignified living space, while the installation of Starlink internet empowers them with real-time access to information and better communication with central government

"This is critical for everyday operations and even more so during times of disaster."

The Starlink installation at the Rotuma Government Station was part of a broader project involving the connection of 10 rural and maritime government stations across Fiji.

The initiative was designed to bridge the digital divide, improve coordination during emergency situations, and enhance the overall efficiency of public service delivery in underserved areas.

Mr Rabuka said this new technological advancement would allow civil servants to access real-time information and improve communication with headquarters, while also opening digital doors for nearby communities.

To complement this connectivity upgrade, the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management was also working through a strategic partnership with the Reserve Bank of Fiji (RBF) to deliver a tailored financial literacy training to community members in Rotuma, with a particular focus on women and youth.

From Fiji Broadcasting Corp. (18 May 2025)

Pride in Identity runs deep

By Kelera Ditaiki

The Rotuman culture and language may be under threat, but this year’s Rotuma Day celebration was a powerful reminder that pride in identity still runs deep.

The event became more than a cultural showcase; it was a rallying cry to preserve traditions for future generations.

All seven districts came together in a vibrant show of unity, ending the week-long celebration with dance, food, and storytelling, proof that while challenges remain, the spirit of Rotuma is far from fading.

According to Francis Crocker, the Rotuman language and culture are sources of pride for the community, but they are gradually eroding.

“The Rotuman culture is truly unique, but it is disheartening to see that many young people have little to no knowledge of it.”

The youths take pride in being empowered and encouraged to participate in the traditional dances.

Another Rotuman youth shared the same concern, noting that young people are encouraged to participate in traditional dances, which help tell the story of their people.

“The Rotuman language and culture are dying, and I believe it is our responsibility as youth to do our part in keeping them alive.”

They believe that encouraging children and youth to participate in the week-long program and traditional dances could spark their interest and help them learn more about their heritage, especially as the Rotuman culture continues to erode.

From Fijivillage.com (16 May 2025)

Rotumans urged to keep their culture and language as week-long celebrations continue

By Mikaele Liga

Rotumans from all walks of life gathered at the Vodafone Arena to celebrate Rotuma Day, a day when they remember their culture and identity as they gather in unison dancing and taking part in competitions from handicraft to farm produce.

Rotuma Day representative, Tomasi Kunau says in most Rotuman homes, the language is hardly spoken and he is encouraging them to speak the language to their family and friends.

He says the week long celebrations began on the island and as they approach the last two days of the celebrations, he hopes Rotumans will know more about their culture, language and identity.

Kunau says although they are scattered all over Fiji away from their relatives and friends on the main island, he is urging all Rotumans to cherish their culture and language.

He adds today the men will be having their yam competition, where they will bring their farm produce and showcase who has the biggest and heaviest yam.

Kunau says today the women will compete in the handicraft and weaving category.

Various dance groups representing their different villages from Juju to Malhaha were dancing to some traditional Rotuman music.

The Rotuman Day celebrations will conclude tomorrow at the Vodafone Arena.

From PMN News (16 May 2025)

'You never leave your homeland': Why Rotuman Language Week is every week

Hatamara Titifanue Shaw, the ever-busy university student leader, treasures Rotuman Language Week and encourages her community to carry its spirit throughout the year.

By Aui'a Vaimaila Leatinu'u

Hatamara Titifanue Shaw. Photo/Supplied

A Rotuman-Fijian university student says Rotuman Language Week is great, but it is even greater when language is embraced daily.

This year's Rotuma Language Week runs from 11 to 17 May under the theme "Åf'ạkia ma rak'ạkia 'os fäega ma ag fak Rotuma", which translates to "treasure and teach our Rotuman language and culture".

Hatamara Titifanue Shaw, a fifth-year student at Victoria University of Wellington, is pursuing a Bachelor of Laws with a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and a minor in Chinese.

Speaking to Tofiga Fepulea'i on Island Time, Shaw, born in Fiji and raised in Wellington, says no matter where you are, "you never really leave your homeland".

Shaw says every year or so, she and her family travel back to their homeland to reconnect with family or attend events. The experience allows her to appreciate both the "melting pot of different cultures" in Aotearoa and the unique cultural dynamics of her ancestral home.

"It was helpful to shape me and who I am. Having that ability is quite nice, because it gives you the flexibility to go between different cultures and different ways of life. My mum used to always say, 'you take your English shoes off when you're back home'," she says.

“In the island way of life that culture never leaves you, wherever you go you take that with you, that's who you are. I'm so grateful to have that diverse experience.”

To celebrate Rotuman Language Week, Shaw hosted a barbecue on campus outside the Kelburn Recreation Centre. She invited students with the promise of “free food” and asking each guest to greet her with a Rotuman phrase.

As vice-president of Victoria’s Pasifika Students Council, she coordinates grants for smaller societies and oversees Pasifika Week and multiple language-week events, finding fulfillment in the “nitty-gritty” work.

Shaw's deep roots in the Rotuman community were established long before she was born, as her parents and other members were integral to the Rotuman Fellowship.

While Wellington is a "wonderful" and diverse place, Shaw says it can be challenging for many Pacific Islanders to feel connected, emphasising the importance of creating a village beyond the household.

"My Aunty Aggie, my Auntie Rosa, who recently passed away, all started the Rotuman community so that we could be able to connect and share our culture because we're so far away from home. Even in Fiji, you're still far away from your homeland.

"I grew up going to different meetings, sitting in the hall, watching my parents be leaders and that's how I got involved. You do different cultural groups or performances. I used to be in different plays with my different aunties and uncles."

Now, Shaw takes on a leadership role for her younger nieces and nephews, guiding them through their culture using the lessons she learned from her parents.

"Now growing up, I am able to almost be a leader to like my younger nieces and nephews and help them through the culture, and what I was taught from my mum and dad. So that was really cool."

Shaw believes that launching Rotuman Language Week as the first Pacific language week of the year presents a great opportunity for the community to strongly represent itself and advocate to make the language a part of daily life, not just a once-a-year celebration.

"It's every week of the year. Having that one week to highlight our language is super important, but carrying that on through, trying my best to speak with my mum at home and with the community here in Wellington, it's important for us.

"It's important for us to take pride and show our culture and language off."

Listen to interview with Hatamara

From Fiji Times (16 May 2025)

CELEBRATION – Linguistic pride

By Alifereti Sakiasi

For Rotumans around the world, May 13 is more than just a date—it is a profound reminder of a pivotal decision made 144 years ago.

Unlike Fiji's Independence Day, Rotuma Day does not mark freedom from colonial rule.

Instead, it commemorates the cession of the island to Great Britain in 1881, a moment when Rotuman chiefs placed their trust in Queen Victoria to protect and guide their people.

A historical pledge

Rotuma, a small but culturally rich island in the Pacific, was ceded to the British Crown in 1881—three years before Fiji itself became a British colony. The chiefs of Rotuma, seeking stability and protection, pledged their allegiance to Queen Victoria, who later entrusted Fiji's colonial administration with the island's governance.

"Our ancestors made a deliberate choice," said Christine Rovoi, a Rotuman journalist based in Australia.

"They believed in Queen Victoria's promise to safeguard Rotuma's future."

Since then, Rotuma has remained a dependency of Fiji, its people navigating the complexities of identity, autonomy and cultural preservation.

While some Rotumans advocate for greater self-determination, the day itself is observed with reflection rather than political assertion—a quiet acknowledgement of history rather than a demand for change.

Keeping the language alive

For Rovoi, Rotuman Language Week is deeply personal. Speaking with her mother daily in Fäeag Rotuma (the Rotuman language) keeps her connected to her roots.

"Even if it's just two minutes, we always speak Rotuman," she said.

"With my siblings, we switch between Rotuman and English, but with elders, it's strictly our mother tongue."

She laughs, recalling childhood struggles with certain words.

"There's a phrase for 'fold the clothes' that always tripped me up. Rotuman is a tongue-twister!"

This linguistic pride is not just about communication—it's about identity. As younger generations increasingly adopt English or Fijian, initiatives like Rotuman Language Week aim to reinforce cultural continuity.

Faith and culture intertwined

Reverend Atu Drokanawai Lagi, regional secretary of the World Methodist Evangelism, emphasises the spiritual significance of language.

"When the gospel came to our shores, it did not bring God—God was already here," he said.

"Our language, our traditions, these are divine gifts."

He references Genesis, reminding Rotumans that their culture is part of God's creation. A German scholar once described Rotuma as "heaven on earth", which illustrates its untouched beauty.

"Languages tell the world who we are," Rev. Lagi added.

"When you hear someone speak Rotuman, you know where they come from."

He urges Rotumans to teach their children the language, not just as a cultural duty but as a spiritual one.

"Until every tribe and nation hears the gospel, Christ's return remains pending. Our language is part of that divine plan."

144 years on, the challenges of modernisation, migration and language erosion loom large, but the community's resilience endures.

For Rovoi, Rotuma Day is about honouring the past while ensuring the future.

"We may not be independent, but we are distinct," she said.

"Our language, our faith, our history—they make us who we are."

And for Rev. Lagi, the message is clear: "When God is at the centre, our culture thrives. Without Him, we risk losing everything."

The sun has set on another Rotuma Day but the echoes of Fäeag Rotuma, the prayers of the faithful and the memories of ancestors remind the people that this story is far from over.

Ms Rovoi and Rev Atu appeared on the PMN News podcast earlier this week. Excerpts from their interviews were used to compile this article.

From Fiji Sun via Pressreader (14 May 2025)

PM Marks First Visit to Rotuma

PM unveils key projects

By Ivamere Nataro

It was a joyous occasion on the island of Rotuma yesterday as the people gathered to celebrate 144 years of anniversary of the ceding of their island to Great Britain. The sun came out after days of rain bringing with it smiles on the island of less that 2000 people.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was present marking his first visit to the island since taking office in 2022. As part of the celebration, Mr Rabuka commissioned the new house of the District Officer of Rotuma, Luke Savu, and a starlink package, gifted by the United Nations Development Programme, to bolster connectivity for the people of Rotuma.

In his address, Mr Rabuka reassured Government commitment to help Rotuma and its people in all areas of development.

He challenged Rotumans to draw inspiration from Fiji's first Rotuman president, Major-General (Retired) Jioji Konrote, who was also present at the event.

"I wish to inform you all today that your Government has a vision for Rotuma. This vision emanates from our National Development Plan and one that will ensure the basic infrastructure is available for all Rotumans, where Government services are made available to each one of you and that every community is able to grow and prosper," Mr Rabuka said. "In addition, your Government will work towards bolstering the partnership between the private and public sector to insure that Rotuma is able to accommodate various types of economic activities that will revitalise your rural economy and raise standards of living."

Rotuma Council chairperson Gagaj Manav conveyed his gratitude to the Government and other international donors that helped Rotuma adapt to the changes brought about by social and economic developments.

"The Council of Rotuma is prepared to work with the Government and the Council of Chiefs in Fiji to formulate a framework acceptable to the people and promote the cooperation between two distinct cultures to co-exist with other nationalities that make Fiji home, while protecting our indigenous values and identities," he said.

Also present were the Australian High Commissioner Peter Roberts, Ambassador of Korea in Fiji Jin Hyung Kim, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Abduvakkos Abdurakhmanov, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Sakiasi Ditoka and other Government delegates.

Rotuma Day ended with basket weaving and copra cutting competitions, traditional items, and presentation of prizes for the crop display yesterday.

From Fiji Broadcasting Corp. (13 May 2025)

Rabuka reaffirms Govt's commitment to the growth and development of Rotuma and its people

By Alipate Narawa

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka reaffirmed the Coalition Government's unwavering commitment to the development, growth and prosperity of Rotuma and its people.

The Ahau Government Station was abuzz with activity as villagers from the seven districts came together today to celebrate Rotuma Day.

While officiating at the Rotuma Day celebrations, Rabuka stated that the event is not only a special and joyous day for Rotumans but for all Fijians.

He says despite its relatively small size, Rotuma continues to influence Fiji's history.

The Prime Minister says that the government has a vision for Rotuma which emanates from the National Development Plan and one that will ensure that basic infrastructure is available for all Rotumans, where Government services are made available to each and every one and that every community is able to grow and prosper.

He says that the Government will work towards bolstering the partnership between the private and public sector to ensure that Rotuma is able to accommodate various types of economic activities that will revitalise the rural economy and raise standards of living.

Rabuka says despite the challenges, he believes there is a better future for Rotuma as he sees a people that are strong, resilient, and have always punched above their weight.

The celebration featured traditional performances, and displays of root crops and handicraft, as well as basket weaving and coconut cutting competitions.

From Fiji Broadcasting Corp. (13 May 2025)

Rotuma recognised for role in rebuilding a united Fiji

By Shania Shayal Prasad

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has commended Rotuma for its contribution to national unity, recognising its strong presence in leadership, the military, and faith-based institutions.

Speaking at the 144th Rotuma Day celebrations, he described Rotuma as a resilient community that continues to rise above challenges and serve Fiji with distinction.

Rabuka says Rotuma’s strength, unity, and cultural pride serve as an example to the rest of the country as the government works to heal past divisions and build an inclusive Fiji.

"I see people that can overcome adversity. I see people that have over countless times managed to punch above your own height and weight. This is why despite the numerous challenges that you face, I believe that there is a better future for Rotuma."

Rabuka says the government is working on ensuring basic services, infrastructure, and economic opportunities reach all Rotumans through the National Development Plan.

The Prime Minister also highlights efforts to boost private-public partnerships aimed at revitalising the island’s rural economy.

From Fijivillage.com (13 May 2025)

Charlene Erasito named ECOS insider for One Ocean Science Congress in France

By Iliana Biutu

Charlene Erasito from Rotuma is excited to have been selected as one of the Environmental Conservation Online System insiders for the upcoming One Ocean Science Congress in Nice, France.

Erasito is the only female Pacific Islander on the expedition, which aims to document unexplored parts of the ocean.

She is a PhD researcher in France, where she is studying the multi-scale characterisation of seamount biodiversity in the Coral Sea Natural Park of New Caledonia.

Erasito says she is thrilled to be going back to the sea, but noted that this expedition will be different, as they will be exploring deep-sea ecosystems around her home island of Rotuma, which is something she never imagined having the chance to do.

She says it felt like a duty to return to Rotuma, where she remembers travelling as a child for her late father's work and holds fond memories of swimming and fishing at the beach.

She adds the expedition has given her experience with new technologies, including various underwater cameras and video tools. Seeing the deep-sea footage, the fish, the corals, and the life hidden beneath the surface was incredible.

Erasito also highlighted her hope to provide insights through interviews and coverage from the global gathering of ocean scientists.

She says the conference will take place next month.

From Fiji Broadcasting Corp. (10 May 2025)

New vessel to strengthen disaster response

By Sainimili Magimagi

Fiji is set to strengthen its disaster response with a new multi-purpose vessel.

The Government has entered into an agreement with the Japanese Government for a new multi-purpose vessel that will enhance surveillance.

Minister for Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau confirms the vessel still in the agreement phase will boost surveillance and rapid response, especially for outer islands during cyclone season.

Ro Filipe notes that its operations will be managed by the Ministry of Natural Disaster Management.

The vessel is expected to be operational during the cyclone season-from November to April and will service maritime islands, including Rotuma.

“Two days ago we signed an agreement on the delivery of a multi-purpose vessel which will focus on disaster response but at the same time servicing maritime islands including Lau, Kadavu, Rotuma, Lomaiviti, and other islands”

Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Rokuichiro Michii, says the initiative reflects Japan’s strong commitment to strengthening resilience and addressing the increasing impacts of natural disasters across the Pacific.

For years, communities in the outer islands have voiced concerns over delayed disaster response.

With the new vessel in place, that is expected to change-ensuring timely assistance and support when disasters strike.

From The Guardian (9 May 2025)

The woman unlocking the mysteries of the deep sea in Fiji

Nicknamed 'Moana', Charlene Erasito is the only female Pacific Islander on the expedition to document unexplored parts of the ocean

By Sera Sefeti

On the island of Rotuma in Fiji, Christmas is a time of joy, a celebration bursting with song, dance and laughter. Charlene Erasito remembers watching the festivities there when she was a child, captivated as people paraded through the village for "fara," a local Christmas celebration.

Erasito never imagined that decades later, she would return to the same shores, no longer as a spectator but as a scientist. Erasito, now 30 years old, is the only female Pacific Islander aboard an ambitious expedition seeking to document unexplored ocean ecosystems in Fijian waters.

The months-long project, led by National Geographic Pristine Seas, began in April with a crew of local and international experts. It starts with deep sea exploration and will later examine shallower parts of the ocean. The expedition began in Fiji and will also travel to Tuvalu and Tonga.

Stepping on the deck of the research vessel last month, Erasito was affectionately nicknamed "Moana" by her crew mates – a title she accepts with a laugh.

"It was funny because, as a child, I actually had a pet pig and chicken," Erasito says, referencing the popular animated Disney film. "Except I named them 'Pig' and 'Chicken'. Zero creativity there."

Erasito is studying for her PhD at the French national institute for ocean science and technology. The invitation to join the expedition came after her research on seamounts – underwater mountains that rise from the sea floor – and biodiversity in New Caledonia impressed the Pristine Seas team. In that project, she used remote-operated vehicles, imagery and acoustic data to explore deep-sea life.

She has family links to Rotuma and was "speechless" when asked to join the Fijian project.

"I was at work in France when the invitation came. It took me days to process and respond. It was surreal," she says.

"I was thrilled to be going back to sea, but this expedition would be different. We would be exploring deep-sea ecosystems around my home island of Rotuma – something I never imagined I'd have the chance to do" she says.

Erasito says it "felt like a duty" to return to the Rotuma, where she remembers travelling as a child for her late father's work. She had fond memories of swimming, fishing and the beach.

“I used to listen to stories of night fishing that my dad would share or different aspects of Rotuma … but mostly the significance of the ocean to Rotuma and her people.”

“Every person we met on the island felt like family – whether or not we were actually related. That’s the magic of home.”

The expedition has given Erasito experience with new technologies including types of underwater cameras and video tools.

“Seeing the deep-sea footage – the fish, the corals, and the life hidden beneath the surface – was incredible. And to know we’re exploring with minimal disruption to these fragile habitats was important to me.”

The deep-sea part of the Rotuma exploration has wrapped up, and the vessel is on its way to Tuvalu. So far, scientists have documented diverse and healthy ecosystems, and have begun sharing their knowledge with village chiefs. At the end of the journey, they will report the full findings to government and other partners.

Dr Keiron Fraser, expedition leader for Pristine Seas, said Fiji and Rotuma are home to "an awe-inspiring array of marine life."

"Guided by our local partners, this team will help unlock the mysteries of the ocean so we can learn how to best protect it," he said.

The Pacific Ocean is home to many, but due to its sheer size, there are areas that are yet to be fully explored.

"For many of our islands, the ocean isn't just our back yard. It's our lifeline. Protecting it starts with knowledge – and that starts with expeditions like this," Erasito says.

Fraser says Erasito's involvement has been "inspiring for the young people in Rotuma."

"We've been unbelievably lucky to have Charlene with us. The children loved her … a real example of what's possible."

Erasito hopes other young Pacific women will follow her path.

"The ocean is in our blood, our stories, and our responsibilities. You belong – in science, on ships, in submarines, and in rooms where ocean decisions are made. Follow your heart."

From Scoop Co. NZ (9 May 2025)

Rotuman Language Week Aotearoa 2025

Press Release: NZ Rotuman Community Centre

Åf'kia ma rak'kia 'os fäega ma ag fak Rotuma - tēfakhanisit Gagaja nā se 'äe ma gou
Treasure & Teach Our Rotuman Language and Culture - A Gift given to you and I by God

This coming week Rotuman people and our Communities in Aotearoa celebrate Rotuman Language Week 2025.

The week-long Community-led event by The NZ Rotuman Collective will showcase the unique and beautiful language and culture of people who originate from the idyllic Pacific Island of Rotuma.

"Each day of the week has been allocated a different them,e" Chairperson Rachael Mario said, "With the Elders, Youth, Children, Community and Religious leaders hosting their days."

And as well as Language and Culture, the Rotuman Language Collective also focusses on key social justice areas that Communities need more awareness on, including:

- Mother's Day acknowledging mothers and family (on Sunday 11 May)

- Community Engagement (on Monday 12 May)

- Decolonisation and Pasifika People's advocacy for social justice (on Tuesday 13 May)

- Seniors Health & Well-Being with Hula Fit exercise, Lunch (on Wednesday 14th May)

- Cultural Art Classes for the community (on Thursday 15 May)

- Children's Day - La'ri'ri'i jump jam (on Friday 16 May)

- Serving our Communities by Rotuman Youth - distribution of food parcels (on Friday 17 May)

- Ethnic Festival – showcasing our dances and culture (on Sunday 18 May)

"It is extremely important for our migrant communities to connect with Maori as people of this land and be aware of colonisation and displacement. This will also help Rotuman people understand our own colonisation by the British and Fiji," Ms Mario said.

The Language Week will commence tomorrow, Sunday 11th May, with a blessing and Church Service, led by the members of the Kingsland Rotuman Methodist Congregation, where the Group's origins began over 30 years ago.

This Kiwi-led initiative was started in 2018 by the Auckland Rotuman Fellowship Group Incorporated (ARFGI) and has now grown to include many groups throughout the world.

The feature event will be on Sunday 18 May Ethnic Festival, including the Rotuman Showcase with a traditional dance and fashion show.

And followed by Community Engagement with Hon. Dr. Carlos Cheung (MP for Mt Roskill) and other community leaders.

This year, UNESCO reaffirms its commitment in 2025 to celebrating and safeguarding endangered languages as vital components of cultural heritage and human diversity, making this Language Week even more important.

The theme for this year's Language Week is: Åf'kia ma rak'kia 'os fäega ma ag fak Rotuma - tēfakhanisit Gagaja nā se 'äe ma gou (Treasure & Teach Our Rotuman Language and Culture - A Gift given to you and I by God).

Rotuman people are a separate ethnic group with their own distinct Polynesian language, culture, and identity. Rotuma is described as an 'untouched paradise' with some of the world's most pristine and beautiful beaches.

"Language is what makes us who we are, and is part of our culture and identity," Ms Mario said. "And it is our duty to preserve this invaluable taonga."

The Group hopes the week's activities will help bring people together, and showcase Rotuman culture. "We invite everyone to come and join us, and celebrate being Rotuman," Ms Mario added.

"It has not been easy for our community to keep our language alive in Aotearoa," Ms Mario said. "We pay tribute to our elders and leaders, who for the last 40 years have continued to celebrate our culture in New Zealand, and for helping keep our customs and traditions relevant."

Rotuma consists of the island of Rotuma and its nearby islets, and is located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, about 500 kms north of Fiji, and 500 kms west of Wallis & Futuna. Rotuma was annexed by the British on 13 May 1881 ('Rotuma Day'). Although Rotuma is its own nation, it is currently administered by Fiji as a dependency.

The Rotuman language is listed on the UNESCO List of Endangered Languages as "Definitely Endangered."

For a more a detailed programme and information visit http://www.rotuma.org

For additional items related to Rotuma Language Week in New Zealand see:

Noa'ia! Nesia Daily celebrates Rotuma Language Week

Rotuman Language Week 2025 - New Zealand Parliament

From Siria to Aotearoa: honouring Rotuman language and legacy

NZ celebrates Rotuman language as part of Pacific Language Week series

In pictures: Rotumans unite in celebration of language and culture

I am Rotuman