Ro Teimumu Opens New Vale ni Bose, Calls for Indigenous Empowerment and Economic Unity

The Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) Complex has officially reopened, marking a historic moment for iTaukei leadership and identity after 16 years of absence, with Ro Teimumu Kepa – Na Marama Bale na Roko Tui Dreketi – delivering a passionate keynote address at the opening ceremony on Friday.

The traditional leader of Burebasaga paid tribute to the Vanua and dignitaries present, including President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, Chief Justice Salesi Temo, and members of Parliament and the diplomatic corps.

Ro Teimumu reflected on the past two decades since she participated in the groundbreaking of the original Vale ni Bose in 2005, and the pain of its disbandment by decree in 2007 under the military-led regime.

“The GCC was rendered homeless for 16 years,” she said. “Systematically robbed… by redirecting and repurposing their goods, assets and resources.”

She likened the burning of the Vale ni Bose in 2019 to a symbolic act, foreshadowing a new era. “I said then that a new Vale ni Bose would appear… and today, we open the phoenix that has risen from the ashes.”

The new complex, standing on the same Suva hilltop site, was praised for its architectural symbolism, with surrounding ministry buildings representing parts of the iTaukei body and the “bilo” or communal bowl as a centerpiece yet to be completed.

Ro Teimumu stressed that indigenous leadership must evolve, calling for functional, educated, and spiritually grounded chiefs.

“Chiefs must seek the wisdom of Solomon… people ask their chiefs to be of good faith and honest character,” she said.

She urged the GCC to fill the cultural leadership gap left during its absence, especially in combating the social issues plaguing the iTaukei community – including drugs, gender-based violence, HIV/AIDS, teenage pregnancy, and homelessness.

Turning to the economy, Ro Teimumu highlighted the need for indigenous provincial companies to mobilize investment and cooperate across provincial lines. She pointed to a proposed joint venture between Rewa, Tailevu, and Naitasiri to export dalo to Asia – a region with vast unmet demand.

“If Fiji farmed dalo on every arable piece of land, it still would not meet Asian demand,” she said. “The Rewa Province is ready and waiting.”

She contrasted the challenges faced by local businesses with the incentives offered to foreign investors and called for greater fairness in financing and opportunities.

Ro Teimumu applauded the emergence of the Excellence in Yasana (Provincial) Aspiration Award, introduced at the Prime Minister’s International Business Awards, as a step toward recognizing indigenous business excellence.

“We want to do our fair share, but we deserve a fair chance,” she said.

She concluded with a biblical blessing, calling for the GCC to become a beacon of hope and a guide through Fiji’s challenges.

“The Lord bless you and keep you… and may He continue to bless Fiji and bless all those who use the GCC Complex.”