AGP Executive Report

Maritime Rescue: Six people missing after a boat left Namuka Island for Fulaga in Fiji’s Lau Group were found by the RNZAF Poseidon crew, spotted at 5:30pm Friday and rescued by the Fiji Navy ship Savenaca after rough seas and 3.5-metre swells. Regional Security: Australia is backing Fiji’s “Ocean of Peace” vision, with Penny Wong saying the alliance is built on trust and mutual respect as Pacific leaders push for stronger regionalism. Health & HIV: Australia says Fiji’s HIV response needs a whole-of-community effort, with no quick fix, and support focused on prevention, training, outreach and supplies under the Vuvale Partnership. Indigenous Rights: The Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei says Fiji still needs the proposed Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill to deliver practical outcomes and strengthen iTaukei self-determination under UNDRIP. Cost of Living Debate: PM Rabuka rejects calls to lift Fiji’s minimum wage from $5 to $8 as “unsustainable” amid economic pressure. Climate & Water: El Niño is strengthening; the Agriculture Ministry says it will keep monitoring before any farmer support, while water sources are already under strain. Sports: The OFC Men’s Champions League kicks off in Fiji with Rewa set to face Galaxy FC, while Lae City opened with a 4-1 win over Tupapa.

Maritime Rescue: RNZAF P-8A Poseidon crew found six people overdue in a small boat in Fiji’s Lau waters after a six-hour search in rough seas, with the Fiji Navy ship Savenaca taking them to Suva for medical checks before reuniting with families. OFC Champions League: Lae City FC opened the OFC Men’s Champions League with a 4-1 win over Cook Islands champions Tupapa Maraerenga in Lautoka, while Rewa begin their Group B campaign today against Vanuatu’s Galaxy FC. Tourism & Sport: The Fiji Pro returns to Cloudbreak reef from August 25 to September 4, with the Nadi Chamber expecting a boost for hotels, transport and local businesses. Indigenous Rights Debate: Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei says the proposed Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill must deliver practical outcomes and link Fiji to UNDRIP, rejecting claims existing laws are enough. Road Safety Change: Driving instructors warn the LTA’s new mandatory Learner Driver Course and extra instructor certification requirements are being rolled out without consultation. HIV Response: Australia reiterates it will back Fiji’s HIV priorities through prevention, training and community outreach, stressing there’s no quick fix. El Niño Watch: Agriculture says it’s monitoring strengthening El Niño before deciding on farmer support, urging water harvesting and wise use now. Port Security: Fiji Ports says alleged kava theft points to an internal security threat and is pushing for a dedicated police office and shared CCTV with police. Community Support: Radisson Blu Resort Fiji donated 10 double bunk beds to Ratu Kadavulevu School’s hostel to improve students’ sleeping arrangements. Disability Aid: About 100 people in Tailevu are set to receive mobility equipment through the Mobility Devices for Fiji initiative.

Minimum Wage Debate: PM Sitiveni Rabuka says lifting Fiji’s $5 minimum wage to $8 an hour is “unsustainable” amid fuel and economic pressures, after the Fiji Trades Union Congress pushed for a living wage. El Niño Watch: The Agriculture Ministry says it will keep monitoring El Niño’s strengthening impact before deciding on any farmer support, urging water harvesting and smart irrigation. Maritime Provinces Call: Tui Nayau Ratu Tevita Mara demands fairer Budget investment for Fiji’s maritime islands, citing missing jetties and unsafe landings for families in Lau. Indigenous Rights Bill: Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei president Adi Finau argues the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Bill should give iTaukei greater control over natural resources, saying land ownership doesn’t mean control of trees and carbon reserves. Pacific Diplomacy: Pacific foreign ministers in Suva failed to agree on a joint statement condemning China’s missile test, with Fiji backing a united Pacific stance while some members opposed. Regional Cooperation on Drugs: Australia says it will support Fiji’s drug rehabilitation based on Fiji-set priorities, stressing the link between drug use and HIV. Tourism Supply Chain: Viti Indigenous Tourism Alliance says indigenous resource owners are missing out on resort supply opportunities, calling for stronger food and services partnerships beyond leases. Search and Rescue: Six people missing in Fiji’s Lau Group were found and rescued after RNZAF and Fiji Navy coordinated searches in rough seas.

Maritime Rescue: Six people missing in a small boat in Fiji’s Lau Group were found and rescued after rough seas and strong winds; an RNZAF P-8 Poseidon spotted the vessel near Vanuavatu and the Fiji Navy ship RFNS Savenaca pulled them to Suva for medical checks. Drug Rehab Priorities: Australia’s Penny Wong says any future support for Fiji’s drug rehabilitation must be guided by Fiji’s own leaders, health officials and communities, with a focus on tackling the drug use–HIV link. Marine Pollution Push: Fiji’s Environment Ministry backed the 2026 Suzuki Clean Ocean Campaign, stressing that clean-ups must go hand-in-hand with stopping waste from entering the sea. Business & Investment: The Fiji Commerce and Employers Federation renewed its TOPEX venue partnership with Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa for 2026 and 2027, aiming to connect private sector, investors and policymakers. Women in Politics: People First leader Inia Seruiratu says his manifesto includes a 30% women’s representation target via temporary special measures, citing campaign costs as a key barrier. Regional Security Row: Pacific diplomats in Suva failed to agree on a joint statement condemning China’s missile test, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters accusing some states of appeasing “outsiders.” Water Crisis: Taveuni residents say delays in water deliveries are worsening shortages, with some still waiting after contacting the Water Authority of Fiji.

Lau Sea Rescue: Six people reported missing after leaving Namuka Island for Fulaga have been found safe, with a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8 locating the vessel near Vanuavatu and the Fiji Navy rescuing them shortly after 8pm despite adverse weather. Pacific Security Diplomacy: Fiji backs a united Pacific stance against China’s missile testing, but Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers failed to agree on a joint condemnation, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters saying two members blocked consensus. HIV Funding Boost: Australia announced FJD$23.5m for Fiji’s HIV response under the Vuvale Partnership, framing the outbreak as both a public health and security challenge. Fiji Development Goal: PM Sitiveni Rabuka set a 2050 target for Fiji to reach middle-income status by lifting ordinary people’s income-earning capacity, citing current growth at 2.5% against a 6% benchmark. Japan–Fiji Defence Ties: Japan hailed Fiji as an “anchor” for peace and security, pointing to defence cooperation and support for Fiji Navy maritime awareness. FNU Campus Scrutiny: Rabuka wants answers on the unfinished $12m Fiji National University Naiyaca campus, after concerns over tender and governance issues referred to FICAC.

Pacific Diplomacy Stalls: Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers in Fiji failed to agree on a joint response condemning China’s July missile test, with New Zealand’s Winston Peters saying two countries blocked consensus—reportedly Kiribati and Naoero—while leaders now plan to take the issue up at a leaders’ meeting in Palau. Regional Ownership Push: PIF chair Rick Houenipwela urged Pacific ministers to strengthen regional ownership of external partnerships and ensure Forum decisions translate into practical outcomes. HIV Funding Boost: Australia announced FJD$23.5m for Fiji’s HIV response, framing the outbreak as both a public health and security challenge, and backing a whole-of-community approach. Security Cooperation: Penny Wong backed Pacific-led security talks and discussed the Ocean of Peace Alliance, while Australia also pushed stronger regionalism at the Forum. Fiji Accountability Watch: PM Rabuka wants answers on the unfinished $12m Fiji National University Naiyaca campus and says he’ll seek an update on the FICAC investigation. Women’s Representation: The Great Council of Chiefs wants Fiji’s next Constitution to guarantee more women in Parliament via a legislated quota. Maritime Rescue: Search for six missing in Lau waters was strengthened with a New Zealand Air Force P-8A aircraft as rough seas hamper efforts. Border and Spill Readiness: FRCS reported record $3.51b revenue, while Japan handed Fiji $1.6m in oil spill response equipment to improve marine emergency capability. Sports Spotlight: Cricket Fiji’s Super 8 returns with prize money up 300%, and Rabuka urged the Fijiana to seize a “golden opportunity” against South Africa in the opening Test.

Women in Parliament Push: Parliament Speaker Filimone Jitoko says Fiji’s democracy needs more than voting—women must become decision-makers, but barriers like family duties, weak networks, stereotypes and online abuse still block progress. Gender Representation Numbers: Minister Sashi Kiran notes only 5 women sit in Parliament (9.1%), with just 49 women elected over 60 years, urging parties to strengthen candidate lists and consider quotas and law reviews. Maritime Safety: Search resumes for a missing boat carrying six people after a fibreglass vessel failed to reach Fulaga from Namuka; strong winds and rough seas are hampering efforts, with authorities urging mariners to stay alert and report sightings. Sugar Industry Shift: PM Sitiveni Rabuka signals a new era for sugar, saying ageing mills must be replaced with smaller, more efficient ones, while farmers raise concerns about expired leases and idle cane land. Climate Response with Science: Environment Minister Lynda Tabuya says science is key to Fiji’s climate push ahead of Pre-COP31, highlighting work on oceans, fisheries, crops and adaptation planning. HIV Funding Boost: Australia pledges $23.5m for Fiji’s HIV response, framing the crisis as both a health and security challenge. Regional Diplomacy: Australia’s Penny Wong backs Rabuka’s call for world leaders to attend Pre-COP31 and says Fiji-Australia treaties will be tabled in Australia’s Parliament. Women’s Safety in Policing: Fiji Women’s Lawyers Association alleges police officers sexually harassed women via community Viber groups, calling for stronger safeguards under the Police Bill.

HIV Response Boost: Australia has pledged $23.5 million to back Fiji’s National HIV Outbreak Response Plan, including stronger testing and treatment through the Vuvale Partnership for Health, as Fiji faces the fastest-growing HIV epidemic in the world. Women’s Safety & Policing: The Fiji Women’s Lawyers Association says police are undermining public trust, alleging sexual harassment by officers using community Viber groups, and is urging stronger safeguards in the proposed Police Bill. Climate Diplomacy: Fiji says Pre-COP31 preparations are on track, with invitations and documents to go out via UNFCCC focal points, and officials stressing success should be measured by progress in negotiations. Sugar Industry Reassurance: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica told cane farmers the industry won’t be discarded, while farmers push for higher cane prices and practical reform. Local Health Access: Levuka residents were told private pharmacists are free to open, but government won’t approach them, as the town continues to face medicine shortages and ambulance gaps. Sports & Community: Fiji Rugby defended scheduling Fijiana XV alongside national quarter-finals, and the Fiji Sports Council has advertised for a new CEO. Regional Youth Framework: Pacific youth leaders backed a 2027–2036 framework to guide youth development across the region. Deep-Sea Mining Debate: American Sāmoa is pushing back as deep-sea mining plans spark growing Pacific opposition.

Pacific Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Winston Peters heads to Fiji for the Pacific Islands Forum foreign ministers meeting, aiming to align on shared priorities ahead of leaders talks in Palau. Road Safety: Two people died in a Navua crash on Vakabalea Road, renewing calls for speed humps after residents say repeated accidents demand traffic calming. Sugar Sector: PM Sitiveni Rabuka tells Seaqaqa cane farmers FSC privatisation won’t be rushed, while Sugar Minister Tomasi Tunabuna says cane prices are driven by the global sugar market and a $85/tonne minimum is supported by government top-ups. Governance: Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica returns to Cabinet after perjury charges were cleared, dismissing leadership speculation and saying his focus is governing. Health & Rights: Pacific leaders and global advocates warn that anti-rights and anti-gender backlash is undermining the fight against HIV as funding falls. Business & Payments: Mastercard-backed DUAPAY launches for Fiji’s women micro and small business owners after a 12-month pilot, boosting mobile card payments. Sports: Rewa FC is urged to get full support as it represents Fiji in the OFC Men’s Champions League. Earth Activity: Fiji Seismology reports 264 earthquakes recorded in July, mostly shallow in the north and deeper events linked to subduction east of Fiji.

Court & Corruption: A Suva Magistrates Court order compels police to return British-Fijian writer Charlie Charters’ electronic devices after the High Court permanently stayed his prosecution, with the case back before court on Friday. Sports Eligibility: Fiji’s Rugby League World Cup plans have been hit as the IRL rules the Fainu brothers ineligible for Fiji after they couldn’t confirm Fiji birth records, despite heritage claims. Government & Economy: Deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica, back in Cabinet, dismissed leadership speculation after his perjury case was cleared, saying his focus is governing ahead of the next election. Regional Diplomacy: Fiji and Australia reaffirmed the Vuvale Union push against transnational crime, with narcotics enforcement and police capacity high on the agenda. Skills & Jobs: Polytech Pacific graduates (350) were urged to use work-ready skills to meet Fiji’s demand for trades and technical talent. Earthquakes: Fiji Seismology recorded 264 earthquakes in July, mostly shallow activity around Vanua Levu and deeper events east of Fiji. Business & Trade: Retailers in Suva warn freight and inflation are squeezing margins and consumer spending, forcing cost-cutting over the next few months. Community & Culture: FNU renamed its Labasa campus after former President Ratu Wiliame Maivalili Katonivere, marking another step in northern higher education access.

Sugar Ministry Shuffle: Charan Jeath Singh is back as Fiji’s Sugar Minister after PM Sitiveni Rabuka reversed a Cabinet decision that moved the portfolio to Agriculture, with Singh expected to take up duties next week. Police Boost & Cyber Focus: Fiji and Australia’s security partnership is set to expand police numbers, intelligence and cybercrime capability, fund a new Fiji Police HQ, and use wastewater drug testing results to guide action. Constitution Referendum Push: Former minister Marieta Rigamoto says a referendum could end confusion over proposed constitutional changes, though the Electoral Commission warns the process would be lengthy. Tourism & Investment Rules: Fiji’s new Tourism Act 2026 replaces outdated law and aims to give hotel investors clearer governance, sustainability standards and long-term sector direction. Land Dispute Talks: Nahau landowners want a fresh meeting over the Momi Bay resort land swap, after a postponed Lands Ministry discussion and disagreement over who should represent the sub-clan. Community Safety: A new Denarau Road bus stop in Nadi brings relief, but residents want speed humps and safer crossings. Women in Leadership: A booklet documenting six decades of women in Fiji’s Parliament is launched to inspire more women and girls to lead. UN Peacekeeping Role: UN officials urge Fiji to take a bigger peacekeeping role, citing its 50-year contribution.

Regional Investment & Tourism: PNG Prime Minister James Marape says a business delegation will soon explore investment opportunities in Vanuatu, with a push for tourism links across Melanesia. Women in Leadership: Fiji marks 25 years of FRIEND’s community work, while Minister Sashi Kiran backs more women in politics and a new booklet documents women’s parliamentary contributions from 1966–2026. UN Peacekeeping: UN Under-Secretary-General Jean-Pierre Lacroix urges Fiji to play a bigger peacekeeping role, citing its 50-year contribution. Health & HIV: The Fiji Medical Association warns laws and stigma are hampering the HIV response as infections rise among young people. Border Security: Fiji introduces a digital passenger screening system with SITA to strengthen risk checks before travellers arrive. Maritime Safety: The Vanua o Lau calls for safer outer-island transport after the rescue of six health workers, urging dedicated health vessels and better support. Environment & Skills: GIS professionals train in Nadi to tackle biodiversity loss, climate change and pollution. Sports: Highlanders sign Fiji forward Joseva Tamani to 2028; Fiji Secondary Schools Netball Championships set for Suva in August.

Weather Watch: Fiji Meteorological Service keeps a Strong Wind Alert in force for Yasawa, Rakiraki/Sigatoka coasts, Taveuni, Lau and Lomaiviti, Kadavu and southern Bua, with winds over waters near 25 knots and rough seas, plus gusts on land up to 55 km/h. Women in Politics: MP Premila Kumar says family duties and job fears are holding many women back from standing, urging parties to set candidate targets and offer mentoring and financial support. Climate Talks: Tuvalu’s pre-COP31 climate summit plans may shift to allow ministers if leaders can’t travel, while Fiji says it has no concerns about attendance. Governance Update: Former deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica is acquitted of perjury and false information charges, and PM Rabuka says he will be reinstated. Maritime Rescue: The Lomaiviti Princess 12 crew is formally recognised for rescuing six medical workers after 38 hours adrift. Public Health/City Life: A sewage overflow in Suva disrupted businesses on Cumming Street after a pump failure at Robertson Pump Station. Sport & Pride: Rewa starts its OFC Champions League campaign in Lautoka, while Fiji’s Rainibogi and Tchatchet’s Commonwealth Games stories keep the spotlight on Pacific talent.

Court & Politics: Former Fiji deputy PM Manoa Kamikamica has been acquitted of perjury and false information charges, with the court upholding a no-case-to-answer application; Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Kamikamica will be reinstated. Anti-Corruption: FICAC says it will call four witnesses in the upcoming trial of former deputy PM Biman Prasad, after a pre-trial conference order. Weather & Safety: Fiji Meteorological Service issues a strong wind alert for Yasawa, parts of the coast, Lau/Lomaiviti, Taveuni, Kadavu and southern Bua, with winds up to 25 knots at sea and gusts on land; mariners and residents urged to secure loose items. Health & Community: Lomaiviti Princess 12 crew were honoured for rescuing six medical workers after 38 hours adrift; meanwhile, a sewage overflow in Suva disrupted businesses on Cumming Street. Economy & Tourism: Fuel caps across the Pacific are easing, while Fiji tourism keeps climbing with record June arrivals; Nadi’s Damodar City $80m project gains business support. Regional Security: UN Police Peacekeeping training launched for 50 Pacific and Timor-Leste officers, including Fiji. Sports: Rewa targets an OFC Champions League title as the club opens its campaign in Lautoka; Team Fiji ends Glasgow Commonwealth Games in 20th with gold for weightlifter Taniela Rainibogi and bronze for boxer Jasmine Daunakamakama.

Commonwealth Games: Tonga’s Paula Monta won +100kg judo bronze in Glasgow, while Norfolk Island’s Shae Wilson took lawn bowls bronze—adding to a Pacific medal haul. UN Peacekeeping: Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka pressed the UN to clear outstanding peacekeeping reimbursements to Fiji, saying unpaid funds could have gone to health, transport and education. Climate diplomacy: Fiji’s Environment Ministry says it has no concerns about Australia’s attendance plans for the pre-COP31 meeting in Nadi. Samoa rugby shake-up: Samoa launched a new Samoa Rugby Football Union, citing governance and accountability issues as negotiations with World Rugby continue. Fiji economy: The Reserve Bank reports Fiji’s trade deficit widened to $2.22b in five months to May, driven by higher fuel, machinery and vehicle imports, even as tourism arrivals rose. Human trafficking response: Fiji Police launched an online portal (FAIR) for the public to report suspected trafficking. Health push: Tooth decay remains severe for children, and the Government has allocated $41m for Fiji’s first radiotherapy centre. US visa policy: The US made its visa bond programme permanent for nationals of 50 countries, including Fiji, with refundable deposits up to $20,000 for some B1/B2 applicants.

Human Trafficking Crackdown: Fiji Police have launched an online FAIR reporting portal so the public can report suspected trafficking directly to investigators, as officials warn traffickers increasingly use social media to target victims. Maritime Health Safety: The Health Ministry says it will review safety arrangements for maritime health workers after concerns raised over frontline support and boat conditions, following a rescue of missing staff. Drugs and Crime Push: Policing Minister Ioane Naivalurua says drugs and crime are reaching even remote and maritime communities, urging families, chiefs and faith leaders to work with Government. Fishing Industry Forced-Labour Fears: Human rights advocates allege systemic exploitation in Fiji’s fishing sector, including passport confiscation and debt bondage. Child Health Alarm: Tooth decay affects almost eight in 10 five-year-olds, with officials urging twice-daily fluoride brushing and stronger school-based prevention. Cancer Care Upgrade: Government has allocated $41m for Fiji’s first radiotherapy centre to cut travel burdens for patients. Politics: The People First Party has launched, with Inia Seruiratu promising “people first” governance reform and national unity. Tourism Pressure: Fiji faces an accommodation gap, with calls for up to 5,000 more rooms over five years to support tourism growth. Culture & Community: The High Commission of India hosted “Bhajan Jamming 2026” in Suva, while a Sigatoka HR professional was crowned Fiji’s first Miss India South Pacific Fiji. US Visa Policy: The US is making its visa bond programme permanent from Aug 3, with Fiji among the 50 affected countries.