NEWLY installed Tui Vuda Ratu Josaia Tuivou Tavaiqia has called on the people of Vuda to embrace change and prioritise education as the vanua looks towards the future.
Speaking after his traditional installation at Viseisei Village yesterday, Ratu Josaia said education was key to progress and development.
He offered to provide land for a new school and urged other landowners to support the initiative, including improving teachers’ quarters and providing a new footpath for students.
He also urged the vanua to leave behind obstacles, embrace opportunities and put God first.
The vanua o Vuda transitioned from mourning to celebration after Ratu Josaia was appointed by the kingmakers or sauturaga, Yavusa Nakelo.
Traditional Warriors (bati) from the Tokatoka Werecakaca escorted the new paramount chief to his chiefly residence of Vunisei.
The transition followed the funeral and laying to rest of Ratu Josaia’s uncle, the late Ratu Eparama Kitione Tavaiqia on Wednesday.
Taukei Nakelo Ratu Josaia Natakele said the people of Vuda were happy to install their new chief, with many of the young participating in the installation event for the first time.
He said the newly installed Momo Na Tui Vuda, an American citizen, would stay at his chiefly residence of Vunisei for four nights as a traditional protocol.
