Fiji’s Head of State Accepts Role as Patron of Fiji Red Cross Society

Suva, Fiji – His Excellency the President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, formally accepted the role of Patron of the Fiji Red Cross Society during a courtesy visit to State House yesterday by the Society’s President and Board Chair, Mrs. Sala Toganivalu Lesuma, and Director General, Ms. Ragigia Dawai.

The role of Patron, enshrined in the Society’s Constitution, has historically been held by the nation’s Head of State—a tradition that continues under the leadership of President Lalabalavu. During the meeting, Ms. Toganivalu-Lesuma extended the formal invitation for His Excellency to assume this significant role, which he graciously accepted.

In his remarks, President Lalabalavu commended the Fiji Red Cross Society for over 70 years of unwavering humanitarian service to the people of Fiji. He acknowledged the vital role the Society plays, particularly during times of disaster and national health emergencies, including its outstanding support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I thank the Fiji Red Cross Society for over seventy years of essential and faithful service to the nation,” said President Lalabalavu. “As a former Minister responsible for disaster management, I am very familiar with and appreciative of the quick and effective work of Red Cross volunteers in meeting the immediate needs of affected communities. I remember the strategic positioning and readiness of Fiji Red Cross containers—always well-stocked and maintained—allowing for timely distribution of relief supplies. In discussions with then Director-General Mrs. Allison Cupit, I supported the idea that Government should emulate this model to ensure all divisions are equipped to respond swiftly to disasters.”

Established as a branch of the British Red Cross before Fiji’s independence, the Fiji Red Cross Society became a national entity in 1972 following the country’s ratification of the Geneva Conventions, which underpin international humanitarian law. Today, the Society has a network of over 8,000 trained community-based volunteers operating across all five administrative divisions.

Ms. Toganivalu-Lesuma emphasized the Society’s unique status as an auxiliary to Government, supporting—not replacing—public services in times of crisis. The Fiji

Red Cross is one of only two civil society organisations with formal representation on the National Disaster Management Council.

Director General Ms. Ragigia Dawai highlighted two core objectives that currently guide the Society’s work: ensuring financial sustainability and implementing locally-driven community programmes focused on disaster and climate resilience. These efforts prioritize communities that are off-grid and often beyond the reach of conventional government services.

“Our approach is to equip and empower local volunteers to take anticipatory action and respond effectively when early signs of natural hazards emerge,” said Ms. Dawai. “These volunteers are trained to establish and manage evacuation centres and support vulnerable populations in times of crisis, especially where communication networks are limited or nonexistent.”

President Lalabalavu expressed his appreciation for the Society’s strong collaboration with teachers, traditional leaders, and other local actors, noting that this grassroots approach strengthens Fiji’s disaster preparedness and community resilience.

This meeting comes at a significant moment, as the nation prepares to commemorate World Red Cross Day. It reinforces the Fiji Red Cross Society’s unwavering commitment to the Fundamental Principles of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement—humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality.

It further affirms the vital role of community engagement and locally driven humanitarian action in building a more resilient and compassionate Fiji for all.

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About Fiji Red Cross Society:  Fiji Red Cross Society is a humanitarian organization dedicated to building healthy and resilient communities and serving the most vulnerable.  With a presence in all 4 Divisions through our 16 Branches, Fiji Red Cross offers a wide range of programs in disaster response, health promotion, community resilience, and more. Through its network of dedicated volunteers and staff, Fiji Red Cross strives to alleviate suffering, restore hope, and build resilient communities. Fiji Red Cross Society has been serving communities in Fiji for more than 50 years.