Author: admin_fijitimes

For a child, discipline should teach, not hurt. A proposed constitutional provision is now raising concern over where the line will be drawn between correction and violence.The Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission is warning that children could be left vulnerable if the proposed Constitution Amendment Bill allows corporal punishment described as “lawful and moderate chastisement.” In a statement by the Fiji Human Rights and Anti-Discrimination Commission commissioner, Alefina Vuki argues that what may be considered moderate by an adult can still be violence against a child, and that children should have the same protection from violence at home, school…

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The shortage of cane-cutting labour is putting extra pressure on growers during this year’s harvest. Government is increasing support now, while looking at new ways to keep the industry running in the long term. Cane growers facing higher harvesting costs are receiving more support this season, with Government increasing the manual harvesting assistance from two to five dollars per tonne. Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Tomasi Tunabuna, highlighted that the payment has also been brought forward to help growers manage their cash flow during the harvest. “The $5 per tonne grant is now being paid to the farmers’…

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A damaged section of the Queens Highway near Semo Village is being rebuilt to provide a safer and stronger crossing. The upgrade is expected to improve travel for communities and motorists who rely on the busy road. The upgrade of the damaged section of the Queens Highway near Semo Village in Sigatoka is progressing, with work now focused on building a stronger crossing that can withstand heavy rain and future traffic. Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, highlighted that the old culvert has been removed and the site has undergone major earthworks and geotechnical investigations…

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Albert Park hosted the 70th anniversary of the Hibiscus Festival, but the Suva City Council did not receive any venue hire revenue from the event. The Council have highlighted that the festival instead generated more than $823,000 through its activities and sponsorships, with wider benefits reaching vendors, businesses and the community. The return of the Hibiscus Festival to Albert Park came without a venue hire charge for the Suva City Council, with the Council owning and operating both the park and the festival. When questioned in parliament on the revenue from the use of the grounds, the Minister for Housing…

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The Navakaka Women’s Group in Navatu, Cakaudrove, is turning traditional skills and locally sourced materials into income while supporting development in their community. The 24-member group, led by Rukalisa Maimua, received national recognition at the 2026 National Agriculture Show in Labasa after winning the Value-Adding Crops Award. The women produce a range of traditional and natural products, including Virgin Coconut Oil, traditional wellness products, woven mats, necklaces, earrings, tekiteki and handmade brooms. Their 750ml bottles of Virgin Coconut Oil are sold for $10, while their traditional sinusinu also sells for $10. Woven mats are priced between $80 and $600, depending…

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Sasa Bridge along Bukuya Road in Nadi will be temporarily closed this weekend to allow emergency replacement of its bridge deck. The Fiji Roads Authority says the closure will begin at 9pm on Friday, October 9, and continue until 7am on Saturday, October 10, 2026. There will be no alternative diversion route available while the works are underway. A standby vehicle will, however, be stationed at the site to assist residents who require urgent or emergency access during the closure. Motorists and residents are being advised of the temporary closure as the emergency works are carried out. The post Sasa…

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