The Ministry of iTaukei Affairs will send one officer to each of the 14 provinces to help the Roko Tui in updating the Vola ni Kawa Bula (VKB).

Permanent Secretary Naipote Katonitabua said they were on the verge of the VKB roll-out plan.

He said there had been improvements on the VKB awareness since last year and there had been a number of visitors who went through the VKB.

“There is a lot of people who want to come and find out about themselves and their family,” he said.

“Most of the provinces have been covered for VKB awareness and in the first six months of 2017 we had gone through the 14 provinces.

“I am confident all of them are aware of what we are doing and are very supportive as they come to know more about their families within the VKB.”

Visionary leaders

Mr Katonitabua said: “There is a need to have visionary leaders in the Vanua for the betterment of the iTaukei people.

“The Facilitation Services of the Roko Tui includes the installation of vacant chiefly positions.”

He said in the beginning of last year there were about 60 to 70 per cent vacant chiefly positions.

However, this was reduced to 50 to 60 per cent towards the end of last year.

“It’s encouraging to note that the Vanua is beginning to realise and plan for the installation of the chiefly vacant post as Turaga ni Yavusa and Turaga ni Mataqali.

“We would like to acknowledge the participation of Chairman and members of the provincial councils together with church pastors in this joint effort.”

Mr Katonitabua added that more details on the chiefly positions would be highlighted in the provincial meeting this year.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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