iTaukei Affairs Minister Iferemi Vasu has stressed the importance of taking decisive action to recognize and preserve the cultural and historical contributions of Melanesian descendants in Fiji.

While officiating at the 160th seminar to commemorate the arrival of Melanesian workers in Fiji, Vasu said the ministry was working on a policy to ensure that the affairs of the Melanesian community in Fiji were properly taken care of by their department.

He adds that during this consultation, people will have the opportunity to express their thoughts and ideas to be included in the policy.

“Therefore, we have recommended to your council that the program be revamped so that it is interactive, impactful and gives the community sufficient time to talanoa. »

He further explained that as a country home to both indigenous Fijians, Indo-Fijians and Melanesians, it is essential to ensure that the contributions of each group are celebrated to strengthen national cohesion.

Vasu pointed out that Melanesian descendants were an integral part of Fiji, especially during the blackbirding era, but their contributions often went unnoticed in official narratives.

However, the theme of this year’s celebration is “Liberating Our History: Reimagining Melanesian History in Fiji”.