Tabuya set to take on Pacific climate finance champion role

Minister for Information, Lynda Tabuya, is expected to assume the Pacific Political Champion for Climate Finance role when she takes on her expanded portfolio as Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change next month.

Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Dr Sivendra Michael confirmed on Friday that the transition process was under way following the Prime Minister’s Cabinet reshuffle announced earlier this month.

The changes take effect on January 19, 2026, with Ms Tabuya adding the Environment and Climate Change portfolio to her current ministerial responsibilities.

Dr Michael said he had already conducted an initial briefing with Ms Tabuya on December 23, with a further briefing scheduled for January 5 involving Minister Mosese Bulitavu and senior management to support the transition.

“I had a briefing with her on December 23, and our resumed briefing will be on January 5 when Mr Bulitavu resumes office, given that there will be a formal handover,” Dr Michael said.

He said the Pacific Political Champion for Climate Finance role was associated with the Environment and Climate Change portfolio and that transitions were managed in line with changes to ministerial responsibilities.

Dr Michael said the role involved endorsement by Pacific political leaders and that the transition was subject to approval by the Prime Minister.

He said the ministry would work through the required processes and formally communicate any changes to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat once approvals were received.

The role focuses on advocating for improved access to climate finance for Pacific Island nations. It was previously held by former deputy prime minister Biman Prasad before being transferred to Mr Bulitavu.

Dr Michael said a formal notification would be issued to the relevant secretariats through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs once clearance was received from the Prime Minister.

“When Ms Tabuya assumes the role, I will be required, as the operational focal point, to formally notify the secretariats, including the Global Environment Facility and the Green Climate Fund, of the change in minister. This is standard practice,” he said.

“However, for roles decided by our leaders, we will be guided by instructions from the Prime Minister.”

Following the Cabinet reshuffle, Mr Bulitavu will assume the role of Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, previously held by Sakiasi Ditoka, who is now the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade.

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