IN the centre of Suva City, a new building now rises high above the skyline, shining in the sun and overlooking the harbour.
The new FHL Tower, an 18-storey commercial building, is more than just another office block. It is a powerful symbol of ambition, unity, and the progress of iTaukei enterprise in Fiji. It represents a journey that began decades ago, when many iTaukei leaders believed that indigenous Fijians needed a stronger presence in the national economy.
The building, now officially opened and fully occupied, is located on the corner of Gordon and Thurston streets. It will serve as the headquarters of Fijian Holdings Ltd (FHL) and provide commercial office space for local and international organisations. But its meaning reaches far beyond its economic role.
At the official opening ceremony, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka described the tower as a milestone in Fiji’s development. He said it stands as a sign of determination and a reminder that indigenous participation in business continues to grow stronger year by year. For him, the building shows what can be achieved when vision and patience are combined.
Later in the evening, guests gathered on the 18th floor for a reception, surrounded by glass walls and a sweeping view of Suva City. Colonel (Ret’d) Sakiusa Raivoce, deputy chair of Fijian Holdings Ltd and chairman of FHL properties, spoke to those in attendance with warmth and pride.
His message was clear: This tower is not just a corporate achievement: it is a statement of identity.
He explained that many years ago, there were very few buildings in Suva owned by iTaukei. For some, this created a feeling of exclusion, as though others controlled the spaces and opportunities in Fiji’s capital city. As he shared the story of a past figure. Sairusi Nabogibogi, who once felt ashamed walking in Suva because “there were no buildings owned by his people”.
“Today,” Raivoce said, “that shame has been replaced with pride.”
He then named several prominent iTaukei-owned buildings that now stand in Suva – Ra Marama House, Suvavou House, Kadavu House, and others. The new FHL Tower joins that list as one of the tallest and most modern buildings in the country. With energy-efficient design, secure facilities, and business-ready services, it is built not just to be seen, but to be used and to last.
The journey to completion was not simple. Construction began in 2018, but like many major projects around the world, it was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There were technical and logistical challenges as well. Yet the project continued because those involved believed in its purpose. They believed the building mattered.
For younger Fijians, the tower stands as an example of what is possible. It proves that indigenous businesses can compete, lead, invest, and build at the highest level. It shows that success is not limited to one group or one background, but is open to anyone willing to plan, work, and persist.
However, this achievement is not something only iTaukei should celebrate. It is something all Fijians can take pride in. Fiji’s story is made up of many cultures and communities, and the progress of one group strengthens the whole nation. When one community rises, the country rises with it. When one dream is achieved, it gives courage to others to try.
If we do not celebrate each other’s achievements, then we lose a part of who we are as a nation. Unity is not built only in times of hardship, but also in moments of success. The opening of the FHL Tower is not just a business milestone – it is a moment of national significance.
Col Raivoce ended his remarks by inviting everyone to look around and see what the tower represents: confidence, resilience, and hope. He raised a toast to the workers, the planners, the supporters, and everyone who believed that Fiji could build something remarkable.
His message to the younger generation was simple: “Dream big, and don’t give up.”
The FHL Tower now stands as a new landmark. Not only of steel and glass, but of pride – pride in where we have come from, pride in what we can achieve, and pride in who we are, together.
Until next week, take care and be safe!
