160th commemoration of the arrival of Melanesians to be held in Suva from Nov 7th - 14th

Great news for the descendants of Melanesians, who have called Fiji their home, as they will be celebrating the 160th commemoration of the arrival of Melanesians to Fiji in Suva from the 7th to the 14th of November this year.

While announcing the great news at Navutu Settlement in Lautoka, during the celebration of the Solomon Islands Day, Minister for i-Taukei Affairs, Heritage, Culture and Arts, Ifereimi Vasu, says they had recently received a submission from the Fiji Melanesian Council requesting assistance for funding.

He says the coalition government, through his Ministry, is providing $100,000 for the celebration.

Vasu says the Solomon Day Celebration serves as a reminder of significant contributions made by their ancestors during the Colonial era.

He says the dispersion of Melanesian labourers across Fiji led to the establishment of more than 30 Melanesian settlements across the country.

The Minister adds over the years, their population increased and right now, it is estimated that there are more than 30,000 Melanesian descendants in Fiji.

While elaborating on the 160th celebration, Vasu says he is adamant that this will be an enjoyable time and the 160th commemorations will include Melanesian outreach, awareness seminar and cultural performances.

He says the coalition government acknowledge the valuable contributions of minority communities to national building and social cohesion.