No Remuneration for Ratu Rakuita

An executive director leading the charge in the pine industry maintains that he is not remunerated for the role he was appointed.

Ratu Rakuita Vakalabure was appointed as Fiji Pine Group of Companies executive chairman in November last year, a role that pays a six figure salary.

A native of Natewa, Cakaudrove, with maternal links to Araura Enua in the Cook Islands, his appointment marks a significant milestone for the organisation.

Mr Vakalabure’s extensive background in law and business complements his deep-rooted connection to the land.

His heritage as a landowner of mahogany and pine plantations provides him with unique perspectives on the industry’s challenges and opportunities.

“The issues that ensure sustainability of the sector are always the same,” he said.

“Landowners’ participation in all areas of the operation is crucial to ensure they experience development in all senses of the word.

“The pine sector must serve as a development tool for those who provide the land on which the trees stand.”

Ratu Rakuita’s wants the pine sector to serve as a beacon for resource owners’ participation in national economy.

His commitment to the original intentions of the pine industry served as a source of economic progress for rural communities, supplying a vital resource for Fiji’s growth, which set him apart as a business leader.

Driven by his passion and insight, Ratu Rakuita aims to honour such intentions and push for inclusive growth.

Ratu Rakuita is a Master of Laws (Commerce and Corporate) from the University of London and a Bachelor of Laws from Bond University, Australia.

His professional journey includes notable positions such as chief executive of Cook Islands Business Trade and Investment Board, and executive advisor to the Cook Islands Prime Minister.

He also contributed to a major restructuring of the project at the Civil Aviation Authority of Fiji, which led to the formation of Airports Fiji Limited.

His leadership extends beyond the business sector into community service to include his role as an executive committee member of the New Zealand Pacific Union Mission of the Seventh Day Adventist Church, overseeing mission work and managing both profit and non-profit entities across the South Pacific and New Zealand.

His roles spanned locations such as Rotuma, Rabi, Kioa, Yasawas, Malolo, and many more, where he worked to uplift and drive development.

Despite the responsibilities of his professional and community engagements, his selfless dedication underscores his commitment to the development and well-being of Fiji’s landowners and communities.

Outside of his professional life, he enjoys gardening.

Ratu Rakuita enjoys his past time at Koronimanumanu, Natewa.

Feedback: salote.qalubau@fijisun.com.fj