Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says the story of Girmit is not confined to one community but represents the shared history, resilience and identity of all Fijians.
In his Girmit Day message, Mr Rabuka said this year’s national theme, “From Roots to Wings: Carrying the Girmit Flame Forward”, reflected both the struggles of the Girmitiyas and Fiji’s broader national journey.
“The theme not only captures the journey of the Girmitiyas, but also the journey of our nation itself — a journey from hardship to hope, from struggle to achievement, and from sacrifice to opportunity,” he said.
Mr Rabuka said the “From Roots” component recognised the courage, sacrifice and resilience of the Girmitiyas and the foundations they established for future generations.
“It acknowledges the foundations they laid — economic, cultural, and social — which continue to shape our nation today.”
He said “To Wings” symbolised the achievements of descendants who emerged from humble beginnings to contribute to Fiji’s growth and development.
“From labourers to leaders, and from struggles to strength,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the final part of the theme, “Carrying the Girmit Flame Forward”, called on all Fijians to preserve the lessons and legacy of Girmit for future generations.
“It is a reminder that the legacy of Girmit is not confined to the past. It is a living responsibility,” he said.
Mr Rabuka described the Girmit experience as more than displacement and hardship, saying it was ultimately a search for belonging and home.
“Today, as your Prime Minister, I say with pride and conviction: Fiji is that home for all of us.”
He reiterated that Girmit should not be viewed solely through the lens of suffering but as a story of endurance, unity and hope.
“We do not commemorate Girmit to glorify suffering, but we commemorate it to honour resilience, and to acknowledge truth, and to draw lessons that guide us forward,” he said.
Mr Rabuka said the legacy of the Girmitiyas remained relevant in a world still affected by division and uncertainty.
“In the darkest times, hope endures,” he said.
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to inclusivity, unity and mutual respect, while urging all Fijians to carry forward the spirit and resilience of the Girmitiyas for future generations.
