Tui Vuda launches new tourism transport company

The Turaga Na Tui Vuda, Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia, has launched a tourism transport company aimed at creating jobs and driving long-term development for the Vanua o Vuda.

Optimistic Tours and Transfer, based in Viseisei Village, was established to tap into Fiji’s growing tourism sector while delivering sustainable economic opportunities for the local community.

The company is fully registered and operational.

The idea was first conceived in 2018, when the Tui Vuda identified gaps in the tourism transport market.

After years of planning, the venture is now up and running.

The Tui Vuda personally invested in a fleet of five tourism-standard vehicles: three 15-seater Toyota Hiace vans, a Toyota Prado, and a Toyota Innova.

A key milestone for the business is securing a transport services contract with Rosie Tours, one of Fiji’s leading tourism operators. The partnership has also opened the door for village tour experiences in Viseisei.

Day-to-day operations are supported by Meli Tora, who works closely with the Tui Vuda.

Mr Tora said the chief was determined to establish a venture that would benefit his vanua during his lifetime and continue supporting future generations.

“He saw the opportunity and chose to lead by example when no one else stepped forward,” Mr Tora said.

Village tour operations have been assigned to Vanua o Vuda Holdings, with the initiative expected to create employment for more than 20 people, particularly young people and community members seeking income opportunities.

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