The iTaukei Trust Fund Board (TTFB), in collaboration with the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs (MTA) and the iTaukei Affairs Board (TAB), has launched a transformative training program called Sauvaki Ni Vanua, designed to strengthen traditional leadership and governance within Fiji’s vanua. At its core, the program emphasizes the importance of good governance and effective leadership to foster peace and stability in local communities.
The training is rooted in the understanding of Fiji’s traditional hierarchical system and aims to:
- Reinforce strong leadership roles that promote harmony within the vanua.
- Strengthen governance at all levels by critically analyzing roles and responsibilities within the traditional structures.
- Address gaps in leadership and governance practices to ensure the vanua remains resilient.
A key focus is placed on the Sausauvou—the traditional heirs to chiefly titles—ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to uphold their roles in their villages or provinces. The program is designed to reach all fourteen provinces of Fiji, with plans to include Rotuma in the future. So far, Rewa, Tailevu, Ba, Nadroga, Navosa, and most recently, Serua have completed the training.
The training takes place at the Centre for Appropriate Technology and Development in Nadave, spanning fourteen weeks. It’s divided into three terms, each consisting of two-week sessions with breaks in between. Participants are transported to Nadave from their villages, accommodated on-site, and provided with meals for the duration of the program.
The training covers six essential components:
- Raratabu Vakavanua – Understanding vanua decision-making forums, governance structures, and the traditional roles that ensure unity.
- Na iTovo ni Veiliutaki Vakavanua – Exploring vanua leadership values, ethics, and approaches.
- Vakasavui ni Lewa Vakavanua – Developing communication strategies using traditional ties and envoys to share information within the vanua.
- Na Cakacakataki ni Lewa Vakavanua – Implementing decisions through solesolevaki, peacebuilding, and conflict resolution methods.
- Vayagataki Vakavuku ni iYaubula – Managing resources sustainably, conserving the environment, and understanding biodiversity.
- Yadrayadravaki – Monitoring and raising awareness within the vanua to ensure its long-term well-being.
Sauvaki Ni Vanua empowers future leaders to carry forward the values of tradition while ensuring strong governance for a sustainable and harmonious future.
