THE opening of BRED Bank’s Sigatoka branch was formally marked by a traditional sevusevu ceremony presented to the paramount chief of Nadroga, turaga na ka levu Ratu Tevita Makutu, in recognition of the vanua and as a mark of respect.
The ceremony took place one week ahead of the official branch opening and formed a key part of the bank’s engagement with the Nadroga community.
During the sevusevu, BRED Bank spokesperson Nimilote Ganilau, on behalf of BRED Bank management and staff, formally thanked the paramount chief for the land and sought his blessing for the bank to establish and operate its branch in Sigatoka.
Permission was also requested for the Sigatoka branch team to engage with surrounding villages through financial literacy outreach programmes aimed at supporting families and communities.
Ratu Tevita Makutu accepted the sevusevu and granted his blessing for BRED Bank to operate in Nadroga.
In his response, he blessed the bank to serve the people of the province with integrity, to operate successfully, and to remain committed to the community for the long term.
He further invited BRED Bank to continue investing in Fiji by enhancing its products and services, encouraging the development of offerings tailored to meet the needs of the Fijian people.
The sevusevu ceremony symbolised the strengthening of the relationship between BRED Bank and the vanua, reinforcing the importance of respect, partnership, and cultural protocol in the bank’s operations in Fiji.
BRED Bank representatives said the ceremony reflected the bank’s values and its approach to community engagement, emphasising that sustainable banking requires strong relationships grounded in trust and mutual respect.
The Sigatoka branch is expected to improve access to modern banking services for residents, farmers, and businesses across Nadroga–Navosa, while also supporting financial literacy initiatives in nearby villages.
By observing traditional customs and engaging directly with community leadership, BRED Bank reaffirmed its intention to operate as a long-term partner within the province.
The ceremony marked an important foundation for the Bank’s presence in Sigatoka, underscoring its commitment to serving the community in a manner that respects local traditions while supporting economic development.
Top: The BRED Bank Fiji team with the paramount chief of Nadroga Ratu Tevita Makutu.
Picture: SUPPLIED
Left: BRED Bank Fiji CEO Pierre Tastet, left, and General Manager Corporate Banking Daniel Livino.
Picture: SUPPLIED
