COMMONWEALTH GAMES
Today marks a historic moment for Fiji as the nation officially launched its leg of the King's Baton Relay, a six-day journey that will carry the Commonwealth Games spirit across the islands before continuing to the Cook Islands.
The Fiji relay was unveiled this morning at Naviti Village in Yasawa by the Hon. Jese Saukuru, Minister for Youth and Sports. In a traditional ceremony, the Baton was blessed to begin its journey across the country, celebrating Fiji's proud place in the Commonwealth family.
The King's Baton Relay, which began at Buckingham Palace in March 2025, is the longest in Commonwealth Games history, spanning all 74 nations and territories ahead of the Glasgow 2026 Games. For the first time, each Commonwealth nation has been given its own Baton to design—and Fiji's response is a unique representation of the nation's cultural identity.
Crafted from sustainably sourced Scottish ash wood, Fiji's Baton features three sides of intricate artwork that together form a sweeping portrait of who this island nation is, where it comes from, and where it is going. The design incorporates Fijian endemic species, cultural artefacts, ocean imagery, and the sacred tabua, reflecting themes of pride, resilience, community, and environmental stewardship.
The relay program is packed with events showcasing Fiji's communities, schools, and sporting spirit. A key feature of Day 4 will highlight Fiji's commitment to environmental stewardship through its participation in the global Commonwealth Clean Oceans Plastics Campaign, with the Royal Commonwealth Society and Commonwealth Sport uniting to collect and prevent one million pieces of plastic from entering Commonwealth waterways.
The Fiji relay will be carried by a diverse group of baton bearers, including athletes and chef de missions, past and present. Among them are Naibili Vatunisolo, bronze medalist at the last Commonwealth Games; para table tennis representative Akanisi Latu; weightlifter Helen Seipua; and 2002 Commonwealth Games bronze medalist - judoka Sisilia Naisiga. Their participation symbolizes the strength and inclusivity of Fiji's sporting community.
More than aceremonial journey, the King's Baton Relay is about inspiring future athletes,strengthening community bonds, and promoting environmental stewardship. As theBaton travels across villages, schools, and stadiums over the next six days, itcarries not only the King's message but also the hopes and dreams of a nationbound by history and looking towards a united future.
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