Tributes Flow in for the Late Alifereti Dere

New Suva Rugby Union chairman and Permanent Secretary for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Maritino Nemani, yesterday led a delegation of former Nabua and Suva rugby players to pay their final respects to former Nabua and national rugby captain Alifereti Dere.

The group gathered to honour Dere’s contribution to Nabua, Suva Rugby and Fijian rugby more broadly, remembering him as a respected leader on and off the field.

Nemani, himself a football legend and rugby figure and former Nabua rugby president, joined former teammates and members of the rugby fraternity at the funeral service, reflecting the deep respect held for Dere within the sporting community.

Dere was widely recognised for his leadership during his playing days, representing Nabua and the army with distinction and later captaining at the national level. Former players described him as a committed sportsman who played a significant role in developing rugby talent and strengthening the Nabua rugby community.

Those in attendance acknowledged Dere’s dedication, discipline and service to the sport, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire young players.

The funeral was attended by family members, friends, former teammates and members of the wider rugby community who gathered to celebrate his life and contribution to Fiji rugby.