In this bulletin:
1. UN — UN adopts pandemic declaration despite U.S opposition
2. PNG — PNG election preparations face staffing, audit and legal challenges
3. TOKELAU — Tokelau reefs showing widespread bleaching as ocean survey reaches final atoll
4. FIJI — “We were never pardoned” – Fiji 2000 coup leader Speight drops bombshell
5. PACIFIC — ‘Decisive action’: Torres Strait sends Pre-COP climate message
6. PACIFIC — World Vision warns children will pay for aid cuts beyond the Pacific
7. FIJI — Fijians deserve clarity on election timetable – SODELPA
8. FIJI — Fiji PM Rabuka hints possible delay to Constitution Bill process
9. PACIFIC — Meteorologist urges proactive El Niño planning
10. FIJI — Indonesia’s naval hospital ship visits Fiji
11. COOKS — NZDF’s Ex Tropic Twilight concludes on remote Penrhyn
12. PACNEWS BIZ — Pacific fisheries adaptation offers new way to measure nutrition benefits
13. PACNEWS BIZ — Fiji consults communities on Inshore Fisheries Management Bill
14. PACNEWS BIZ — Business confidence drops sharply –Reserve Bank of Fiji survey
15. PACNEWS BIZ — UNESCO listing fails to revive Levuka economy
16. PACNEWS DIGEST — Pacific universities advance women’s leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics
UN – HEALTH: PACNEWS PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
UN adopts pandemic declaration despite U.S opposition
NEW YORK, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (PACNEWS) —The United Nations General Assembly has adopted a political declaration on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response despite opposition from the United States, Israel and Argentina, calling for stronger global cooperation to prepare for future health emergencies.
The declaration was adopted on Monday by 153 votes in favour, three against and two abstentions, with New Zealand and Paraguay abstaining.
The vote followed a failure to secure consensus at a high-level meeting on 25 September after objections from the United States and several other countries forced the issue back to the General Assembly.
Chile’s representative summed up one of the prevailing views during the debate, saying that “no country, no matter how big it might be or how prepared it might be, can alone address a threat that knows no borders.”
The declaration is political and non-binding. It calls for stronger national, regional and international cooperation guided by science, equity and respect for human rights.
It also welcomes the adoption of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Pandemic Agreement, while recognising that further negotiations are needed before the agreement can be opened for signature.
“We remain concerned that the world is still insufficiently prepared and needs to strengthen capacities to prevent, prepare for, respond to and mitigate the impact of future pandemics,” the declaration states.
It highlights lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly inequalities in access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatments, which affected developing countries.
The declaration calls for increased investment in resilient health systems, early-warning systems, disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, routine immunisation and primary healthcare. It also urges countries to strengthen health workforces and maintain essential medical services during emergencies.
The WHO Pandemic Agreement cannot be opened for signature until Member States complete negotiations on an annex covering pathogen access and benefit-sharing.
The proposed system would govern the sharing of pathogen samples and genetic sequence information, alongside the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from their use, including vaccines, treatments and diagnostic tools.
Negotiations have stalled amid differences between developing countries and some high-income European countries, as well as the United States.
The World Health Assembly, which comprises the WHO’s 194 Member States, is due to resume work on the annex next May.
The United States had previously raised objections to the declaration, citing what its representative described as “divisive ideologies that lack definitional consensus”, as well as references to the continuing negotiations on the annex.
The declaration also calls for greater local and regional capacity to research, develop and manufacture health products, with the aim of improving access to affordable vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics within the first 100 days of a pandemic threat.
It expresses concern that global pandemic financing remains fragmented and underfunded, with excessive reliance on development financing.
Member States are urged to increase domestic investment, strengthen international financial support and improve coordination among existing funding mechanisms. The declaration recalls an estimated US$15 billion annual gap in pandemic preparedness financing.
It also promotes a “One Health” approach, recognising the links between human, animal and environmental health in preventing infectious disease outbreaks.
Countries further committed to addressing health-related misinformation and disinformation, strengthening public health education and building trust in health systems.
The declaration recognises that pandemics can disrupt education, livelihoods and economies, and calls for measures to protect vulnerable populations and reduce learning losses caused by school closures.
It reaffirms that states bear primary responsibility for the health and well-being of their populations, while stressing that effective pandemic prevention and response require collective international action.
The UN Secretary-General António Guterres has been asked to report to the General Assembly at its 83rd session on implementation of the declaration and recommend further action, including consideration of a future high-level meeting on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response..PACNEWS
PNG – ELECTION PREP: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
PNG election preparations face staffing, audit and legal challenges
PORT MORESBY, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —Papua New Guinea’s Electoral Commission is facing major staffing, financial management and legal challenges as it prepares for the 2027 General Election, Electoral Commissioner Dr Nicole Haley has told a parliamentary committee.
Haley told the special parliamentary committee on general elections in Port Moresby on Friday that preparations were critically behind schedule when she took office on 30 June.
The challenges include staff shortages, unaudited financial records dating back to 2014, the decision not to use biometric voting in 2027 and potential legal issues involving the boundaries of six new electorates.
“At the time of my appointment, preparations for GE27 were critically behind schedule,” Haley said.
She cited under-resourcing across the electoral cycle, financial management problems, delays in adopting new technology and a lack of progress on electoral reform.
“I have been working to reduce the election readiness gap, while simultaneously addressing legacy issues related to internal governance, human resource management and financial compliance,” she said.
“It is a work in progress and each day we are uncovering new things that we need to fix.”
Haley said the commission’s staffing structure was inadequate for the demands of the election, with 33 of its 105 established positions vacant and 12 staff members having reached compulsory retirement age.
Several of those due to retire were election managers who would need to be replaced ahead of GE27.
“The EC needs more positions than it has on its establishment structure,” she said.
The commission plans to work with the Department of Personnel Management to review its organisational structure and explore options, including seconding staff from other government agencies.
Haley said the commission was considering different mechanisms to ensure it had sufficient personnel to manage the election.
She also confirmed that biometric voting would not be introduced for GE27, meaning voters would use ballot papers during polling.
On the six new electorates, Haley said potential legal implications needed to be addressed in consultation with the Electoral Boundaries Commission before the boundaries could be finalised.
Haley also revealed financial management concerns following an examination of the commission’s accounts, including about K3 million(US$670,000) spent outside its budget during the first four months of the year under the previous management.
She said the spending involved wages exceeding the amount budgeted for the full year.
“Our audit of the first four months showed that during that time, K4.9 million (US$1.10 million) was moved to Kundu Pei on the basis of paying casuals and temporary election workers,” Haley said.
“However, less than K1 million (US$220,000) was spent on actual wages.”
Haley described the absence of regular audits as a major challenge for the commission, saying its accounts had not been audited since 2014.
The commission has engaged a firm to begin preparing its financial records for audit, while the Auditor-General’s Office has requested audits covering the period from 2020 to 2025.
Haley said work was underway to prepare the 2020 records, with the commission planning to progress through subsequent years.
“We are working towards a situation that by the time we reach the issue of writs, we should be up to date with our audit work,” she said.
She also confirmed that Treasury had issued the warrant for K150 million allocated to the commission through the supplementary budget.
Haley said the funding would be managed to improve financial accountability and ensure expenditure was properly recorded against approved budget appropriations.
The commission’s immediate priorities include addressing staffing gaps, improving financial compliance and resolving outstanding issues as it works towards the 2027 election.
Haley was appointed Electoral Commissioner on June 30 for a four-year term. She was sworn in by Governor-General Sir Bob Dadae and took her oath of office before Chief Justice Sir Gibbs Salika on 06 August . …PACNEWS
TOKELAU – OCEAN EXPEDITION: PMN PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Tokelau reefs showing widespread bleaching as ocean survey reaches final atoll
NUKU’NONU, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (PMN)—Tokelau’s shallow reefs are showing widespread bleaching and signs of serious degradation.
This comes as a major scientific expedition reaches its final atoll.
The early findings are emerging as the National Geographic Pristine Seas (NGPS) team completes a four-week survey of Tokelau’s marine environment.
Kelly Moore, the expedition lead, says the team has seen some “pretty degraded reefs” during underwater survey around Nukunonu, Atafu, with the crew now working in Fakaofo.
Moore says the findings also reflect the impact of recent ocean warming with much of the coral appearing dead or bleached.
“Corals, for the most part, appear either dead or mostly bleached. We’re also seeing very little recruitment in the reef areas with few predators like sharks and large fish,” she says.
But Moore says the findings should not be seen as a reason to give up on Tokelau’s reefs.
“I don’t want to come across as sounding doom and gloom because it’s not. There is hope and it’s important that we all recognise that this is the reality.
“These are the observations we’re making and there are steps that we can now take. This really points to why protecting what’s healthy and giving reefs time and space to recover really matters.
“We’ve seen this happen in other degraded reef systems where marine protected areas have worked to support the recovery of coral reefs, the return of invertebrates like clams and sea cucumbers.
“It’s clear to us that the future of Tokelau’s oceans will depend on these kinds of management decisions going forward. So we hope that the information we’re collecting, able to show with the data, becomes useful in informing those discussions going forward.”
The expedition is being carried out by NGPS in partnership with Tokelau’s Ministry of Climate, Ocean & Resilience, known as MiCORe.
Scientists, filmmakers and local officials are working aboard the research vessel Argo, collecting baseline information across nearshore reefs, mid-ocean sites and deep-sea environments.
While the shallow reefs are showing the impacts of warming, researchers say the deeper ocean is revealing a different picture.
Using the state-of-the-art Argonauta submersible to reach depths of 1000 metres and deep sea drop cameras beyond 2000 metres, researchers have captured footage of sixgill sharks, chimaeras, rare crabs, and eels.
Experts say the findings are closely tied to how Tokelauans live and move between the atolls.
In a media release, Paula Faiva, the Director of MiCORe, says the ocean is central to Tokelau’s identity, food and future.
“For Tokelau, the moana is more than a resource; it is our identity. As Tagata Tokelau, we are ocean people,” Faiva says.
“It is our pathway between our atolls and outer islets, connecting our communities and linking us to the wider world.”
“The ocean has sustained our ancestors for generations and remains fundamental to our future. Its health and resilience are inseparable from our own wellbeing and prosperity.”
Tokelau’s Exclusive Economic Zone covers about 319,000 square kilometres, more than 25,000 times the size of its roughly 12 square kilometres of land. The territory declared its entire marine zone a shark sanctuary in 2011.
The baseline data gathered during the expedition will help inform Tokelau’s future national ocean policy and marine spatial planning.
Kevin Chand, the Senior Director of Pacific Ocean Policy for Pristine Seas, says the work also supports international biodiversity commitments.
The expedition has included a strong education focus. Students from across Tokelau were invited aboard the Argo for ship tours and hands-on science activities.
Tupa’i Nicki Perese, the Curriculum and Assessment Coordinator for Tokelau’s Department of Education, says the visits offer students a rare chance to take part in scientific work.
The NGPS team spends their final week in Fakaofo sharing initial findings, photos and educational resources with the local community before sailing to Apia, Sāmoa.
The expedition team will then begin analysing the data collected and producing a documentary about Tokelau’s ocean and its relationship with the moana….PACNEWS
FIJI – PARDON: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
“We were never pardoned” – Fiji 2000 coup leader Speight drops bombshell
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI TIMES) —2000 coup leader George Speight has claimed that neither he nor the former Counter Revolutionary Warfare (CRW) soldier late Shane Stevens was ever legally pardoned by the State, despite public announcements two years ago that they had been granted pardons.
Speaking at Stevens’ funeral last week, Speight revealed that the legal documents governing their release referred to a postponement of their life sentences for treason rather than a pardon.
He questioned why the Government had publicly announced that they were pardoned when, according to him, the legal documents stated otherwise.
“Despite the public announcements two years ago of the use of the word ‘pardon’, it was announced to the world that Shane and I had been pardoned along with five others, a group of seven,” Speight said.
“For Shane and I, that word ‘pardon’ is not true.”
Speight said the issue had remained unresolved for two years, despite his attempts to seek clarification from the authorities.
“I have been asking them for two years to please make it right. I have not said a word.”
He said he and Stevens had agreed to remain silent to give the Government an opportunity to explain the legal status of their release.
“Shane and I have agreed that I will not say a word, completely giving the Government every opportunity to at least explain to us why we do not deserve to be pardoned.”
He questioned the discrepancy between the public announcement and the documents issued to them.
“Why announce it publicly and yet do something else?”
Speight said the legal documents governing their release contained provisions relating to the postponement of their sentences.
“The legal document that governs me standing here and Shane lying there says quite something else.”
He explained that a postponement could be granted for a fixed period or for an indefinite period, raising questions about the continuing legal implications of their life sentences.
Speight called on the Government to explain why the legal documents did not reflect the public announcement of a pardon and what the postponement meant for their legal status…..PACNEWS
PAC – PREPCOP31: TORRES NEWS PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
‘Decisive action’: Torres Strait sends Pre-COP climate message
BRISBANE/NADI, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (TORRES NEWS/PACNEWS)—Voices from the Torres Strait with the message to end fossil fuel expansion were heard in record numbers at the Pre-COP climate talks in Fiji ahead of the main COP31 summit in Türkiye next month.
Uncles Pabai Pabai and Paul Kabai, Aunty McRose Elu, Yessie Mosby, Barbs Ibuai, Lala Gutchen, Wollie Gela, Tobias Corrie, Dawson Sailor and Tishiko King represented the Torres Strait in Fiji alongside climate advocates from around the Pacific.
The Pre-COP meeting was cohosted by Australia, which is also head of negotiations for COP31, to prepare the Pacific’s negotiating position for Türkiye.
Uncles Pabai and Paul, who brought The Australian Climate Case to the Federal Court, carried a message of solidarity to the Pacific.
“We are here to connect with different countries affected by climate change, to make plans with our brothers and sisters across the Pacific as we all face the same problems,” Uncle Paul said.
“The water in the Pacific and Torres Strait is the same rising sea, we need to work with our Pacific brothers and sisters for a shared vision.”
Addressing a Torres Strait-issues-focused panel discussion, which was organised for earlier this week by Gur A Baradharaw Kod Torres Strait Sea and Land Council (GBK) at the pre-COP, Yessie Mosby said he advocated for climate justice for future generations.
“We are doing something now for our children, so our children can remain and work, how our mothers and fathers worked, and our grandparents, so our children and grandchildren can live life, learn culture and tradition,” he said.
Climate COPs are the annual intergovernmental summits of nearly 200 countries under the 1992 United Nations climate treaty and also the supreme decision making body. About 50 nations were expected to have officials at the Pre-COP.
Just days ahead of the meeting, Australia had issued a call to action at the UN General Assembly in New York.
“Our region is at the front line,” an Australian diplomat read from a prepared statement.
“For our Pacific neighbours who have contributed the least to climate change, this is not a distant warning, but a daily reality.
“The human rights consequences posed by climate change demand strong and decisive action from all of us.”
Two days before then, the New South Wales government pre-approved the state’s biggest coal mine expansion ever, for the Yancoal and Glencore joint-venture Hunter Valley Operations.
Final approval was now with the Federal Government.
The Climate Council has calculated that 37 new, expanded, or extended fossil fuel projects have been approved by the Albanese government since taking office in 2022.
Tishiko King from Just Futures Collab said there had been enough talk from the Australian government.
“We heard a lot about ambition,” she said. “But for those of us from the islands, ambition without action is not enough.
“You cannot stand in the Pacific and talk about protecting 1.5 [degrees Celsius] while continuing to approve more coal and gas.”
Pacific leaders have regularly criticised Australia for its domestic fossil fuel policy while it advocates for climate action internationally.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen and Special Envoy for Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience Kate Thwaites attended the Pre-COP.
As Albanese arrived, Fiji’s national newspapers on Monday carried wrap-around front pages, paid for by the Australian Conservation Foundation and The Australia Institute, calling for an end to fossil fuel expansions and apologising to the Pacific for new coal and gas approvals.
“Pre-COP in the Pacific will allow the world to hear directly from those on the front line of climate change and see the solutions that these nations are leading,” Albanese said.
“This builds on the work we’ve been undertaking to boost stability, security and prosperity in the region, which is crucial to Australia’s national interest.”
The government said the Pre-COP’s focus was to keep 1.5 degrees Celsius within reach, accelerate the clean energy transition, elevate the ocean-climate nexus and unlock finance for vulnerable countries.
The official Pre-COP interfaith service heard an appeal from the Archbishop of Suva and President of the Fiji Council of Churches, Reverend Peter Loy Chong for a radical rethink.
“Do not admire our resilience while ignoring our reality,” Archbishop Chong told the present leaders at the service.
“Romanticising our plight is not compassion; it is an excuse for inaction.
“Resilience should never be used to relieve wealthy nations of their duty.
“True solidarity requires walking the talk, delivering on climate finance commitments, drastic emissions cuts, and actionable policies that lessen real suffering on the ground.”
Climate Collective ZK founder Barbara Ibuai said it was vital Zenadth Kes united with the Pacific on these issues.
“The ocean reminds us that we are one people, connected by water, responsibility and hope,” she said.
“The overshoot of 1.5 degrees [Celsius] must not be normalised.”
Artist Tobias Corrie said he was proud to be in Fiji with so many Torres Strait Islanders.
“It’s a humble honour to stand at Pre-COP in Nadi, carrying the voices and stories of my people,” he said.
“It is about representing culture, responsibility, and the future we all share.”
Aunty McRose Elu, cultural advisor to the Australian Climate Case, has once again invited the government to see the climate impacts first-hand.
She said if Albanese and his ministers could travel to Fiji for the Pre-COP, then they should visit the Torres Strait.
“You’ve travelled this far to Fiji and Tuvalu, and so we are asking the political leaders, why not come up to our Islands in the Torres Strait and see the climate impacts for yourself?” she said.
Torres Strait advocates will also attend the COP31 in Türkiye in November…..PACNEWS
PAC – AID CUTS: PMN PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
World Vision warns children will pay for aid cuts beyond the Pacific
WELLINGTON/AUCKLAND, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (PMN)—Children are losing access to school, families are struggling to get health care and communities left without clean water are among the risks World Vision New Zealand says voters should consider as overseas aid becomes an election issue in Aotearoa.
Rebekah Armstrong of World Vision New Zealand told Pacific Mornings she is disappointed that development assistance has become part of the campaign debate.
“Development assistance is not just money sitting in a bank account,” Armstrong says.
“”It means children being able to go to school, families accessing health care, clean water, communities building livelihoods, being able to respond when there’s a conflict or disaster”
National and ACT have both ruled out cuts to aid for the Pacific but their plans would reduce support for communities elsewhere.
World Vision, which runs about 60 percent of its programmes in the Pacific, welcomes the regional protection but says it should not come at the expense of other people in need.
“But humanitarian need doesn’t stop at the Pacific edge. Protecting the Pacific should not mean walking away from other children and families,” Armstrong says.
“New Zealand can care for people here at home and still play its international role,” she says, pointing to Norway, Sweden, Finland and Ireland as countries increasing their aid.
The debate comes as Pacific voters in New Zealand face their own pressures. The PMN–Horizon Research Pacific Issues Election Survey found 67 percent of Pacific respondents identified the cost of living as a priority, while 54 percent pointed to health.
ACT wants to cut more than $1.1 billion (US$610 million) from foreign aid over four years from 2028, taking spending back to 2017 levels and saving around $283 million (US$158 million) a year. The Pacific and Ukraine are protected.
“We believe that we should be looking after our friends in the Pacific, that’s critical to New Zealand,” ACT leader David Seymour said at the party’s fiscal policy announcement.
“When I see $15 million (US$8.38 million) for transgender passionfruit, that’s not the sort of expenditure people thought they were getting,” Seymour says.
National is proposing a 10 percent cut to aid outside the Pacific, saving $431.2m (US$240 million) over three years to help fund a $604m (US$337 million) boost for Pharmac and new medicines including cancer drugs.
The party says New Zealand must put its own country and people first. Its examples of what it considers “wasteful’ spending include “workshops with indigenous farmers in Patagonia”.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon says aid spending should better serve New Zealand’s national interest.
“We’re going to be more choiceful, a little more intentional about how we deploy a billion dollars worth of aid budget each and every year,” he says.
Budget 2026 set aid spending at $1.2b (US$670 million), with roughly two thirds going to Pacific Islands countries. With the Pacific protected, the proposed cuts would fall heavily on aid programmes elsewhere.
The plans have also drawn criticism from coalition partner and Foreign Affairs Minister Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters.
He has called National’s proposal “both desperate and dangerous” and ACT’s “mindless” and “training wheel stuff”
“It’s high time that they left it to the adults in the room on this matter. This is extraordinary,” Peters said.
Labour, meanwhile, wants to lift aid spending as close as possible to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) target of 0.7 percent of gross national income, around $3b (US$1.67 million), as a long-term commitment while keeping the Pacific a priority.
The debate comes as international aid shrinks. The OECD says aid from its Development Assistance Committee members fell by 23.1 percent in real terms in 2025, the largest annual drop on record.
That follows a further decline in 2024, according to OECD figures.
In July, PMN News reported a separate OECD projection that aid to Small Island Developing States (SIDS) in Asia and the Pacific could fall by 33.4 percent between 2024 and 2026, leaving these countries “among the hardest hit”.
New Zealand’s general election is on 7 November with advance voting beginning on 26 October…..PACNEWS
FIJI – ELECTION/POLITICS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Fijians deserve clarity on election timetable – SODELPA
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—The people of Fiji deserve timely, accurate information and confidence that the democratic process will proceed lawfully as uncertainty surrounds the country’s electoral timetable amid ongoing constitutional reform efforts.
Social Democratic Liberal Party (SODELPA) Leader Aseri Radrodro has stressed the need for clarity on the next General Election as Parliament considers the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026.
“The people of Fiji deserve timely, accurate information and confidence that the democratic process will proceed lawfully,” the party said in a statement issued by Radrodro.
He said the ongoing constitutional amendment process must not create unnecessary uncertainty over the electoral timetable or distract political parties from preparations for the next General Election.
With 24 December 2026 identified as a critical date in the current electoral timetable, Radrodro said clarity was needed on the constitutional requirements, the issuing of the election writ and arrangements for the polls.
He said the precise legal effect of the date must be determined in accordance with the Constitution and applicable electoral laws.
Under Section 58 of the 2013 Constitution, Parliament ordinarily continues for four years from its first meeting following a general election unless dissolved earlier.
Radrodro said SODELPA would respect Parliament’s decision on Bill No. 32 but would not assume that its passage or rejection automatically determines the timing of the election.
He called on the relevant authorities to communicate the legal and constitutional implications of Parliament’s decision in a timely and transparent manner.
“As a Party, SODELPA believes that constitutional reform must be considered transparently, with proper parliamentary scrutiny and due regard for constitutional safeguards, democratic accountability and the rule of law.”
Meanwhile, Radrodro confirmed that SODELPA was continuing preparations to contest the next General Election regardless of the outcome of the constitutional amendment process.
“Our readiness is not dependent on the outcome of one Bill. It is driven by our responsibility to the people of Fiji.”
He said preparations included developing provisional candidates, strengthening grassroots structures, engaging communities and consulting on policies addressing the concerns of Fijian families.
The party has also conducted candidate workshops focusing on ethical leadership, responsible campaigning, electoral law compliance and accountability.
Its policy priorities include protecting indigenous rights and interests, accountable governance, respect for all communities, economic opportunities, improved public services and practical responses to the cost of living.
Radrodro urged party members, provisional candidates and supporters to remain united, disciplined and focused.
“Candidates, thank you for choosing SODELPA and for believing in the cause. Continue to work hard and campaign ethically. Those who prepare well – prepare to win! Always remember it’s about the people!”
He reiterated that constitutional certainty, responsible leadership and respect for democratic processes were essential to maintaining public confidence in Fiji’s institutions as the country approached the end of the current parliamentary term.
“SODELPA is preparing. SODELPA is organised. SODELPA is ready to contest the next General Election,” he said…..PACNEWS
FIJI – CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Fiji PM Rabuka hints possible delay to Constitution Bill process
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The first public consultations on the Constitution (Amendment) Bill 2026 could begin on Thursday in Suva, Nausori and Pacific Harbour, but Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka says Parliament may be asked for more time.
A draft programme for the Special Committee is circulating but has yet to be confirmed.
Rabuka spoke after the committee’s meeting Monday.
The draft programme shows the committee reviewing the Bill and confirming its consultation schedule today and on Wednesday. Thursday’s sessions are listed for Suva from 9am to noon, Nausori from 5pm to 8pm, and Pacific Harbour in the evening.
Rabuka said time was running short.
“At the moment, we only have 18 days from today, yes? We had 30 days at the reading,” he said.
He said the committee had only finalised its programme for this week at its first meeting.
“Or we can come back to Parliament in the first week of November to ask for the next sitting,” Rabuka said.
The first week of November was expected to be the final sitting period for the current Parliament, but Rabuka said it could continue until December 24.
Rabuka earlier told this masthead that the committee would use its 30 days before reporting to Parliament on 02 November.
The Bill requires 35 votes, a two-thirds majority, at its third reading before it can proceed to a referendum.
Rabuka has proposed December 9 for the referendum….PACNEWS
PAC – ELNINO: FIJI SUN PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Meteorologist urges proactive El Niño planning
NADI, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—El Niño is strengthening in the tropical Pacific, with potential implications for Fiji’s water supplies, weather patterns and disaster preparedness.
A World Meteorological Organisation (WMO)-accredited Class 1 professional meteorologist and former aviation meteorologist for British Aerospace, the Royal Saudi Air Force and the Bahrain Meteorological Service, Dr Sushil K Sharma, has urged institutions to prepare for the months ahead.
“With the Niño 3.4 anomaly currently sitting at +0.9°C, El Niño is established. Subsurface heat content anomalies indicate steady development, and peak anomalies may rise further by late 2026,” Sharma said.
“This requires calm, calculated and proactive institutional planning across Fiji’s divisions.”
He said water managers in the West should monitor reservoir capacity, while disaster management authorities should communicate potential cyclone risks facing the Central and Eastern divisions during the coming cyclone season.
“El Niño is a normal, manageable feature of life in the Pacific. The ocean has run this ancient cycle since before these islands were settled, and national resilience depends entirely on practical preparation, not fear,” Mr Sharma said.
The WMO’s Global Seasonal Climate Update for October to December 2026 forecasts further warming of sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific as El Niño intensifies.
The climate pattern is expected to influence weather conditions worldwide, affecting economies, ecosystems and communities. It is also likely to bring above-average temperatures to much of the globe and shift rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of drought and flooding in different regions.
The WMO update provides information on major climate drivers, including the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and tropical Atlantic sea-surface temperatures, which influence seasonal temperatures and rainfall.
WMO secretary-general Celeste Saulo said the event was expected to persist through February 2027 and could become one of the strongest El Niño events since at least 1950.
Sea-surface temperature anomalies in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific are measured using the Niño 3.4 index, a key indicator of El Niño conditions.
The WMO stated that the index rose from an average of +1.6°C above normal in June 2026 to +2.5°C in August. It forecasts a seasonal average of about +3.7°C for October to December, with a peak around December.
The WMO describes the forecast as the highest since observations began, exceeding the previous record of +2.6°C recorded between November 2015 and January 2016.
The WMO also stated that a positive Indian Ocean Dipole is expected to influence the seasonal outlook. The climate pattern, which affects rainfall around the Indian Ocean, is forecast to peak in October before declining, with a seasonal anomaly of about +0.5°C for October to December…..PACNEWS
FIJI – DIPLOMACY: ISLANDS BUSINESS PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Indonesia’s naval hospital ship visits Fiji
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (ISLANDS BUSINESS)—Indonesia’s naval hospital ship, KRI dr. Wahidin Sudirohusodo-991, is in Fiji from 09 – 13 October as part of a Pacific goodwill mission to strengthen regional ties and provide medical assistance.
Operating under the theme “Bridging Nations, Serving Humanity”, the Indonesia Port Visit runs from 14 September to 12 November2, with scheduled country visits to Vanuatu, Fiji, the Solomon Islands and Papua New Guinea.
The mission deploys Indonesian medical specialists in internal medicine, surgery, anaesthesiology and general medicine to provide clinical services and exchange knowledge with local health practitioners.
In Vanuatu, the ship treated 656 patients and performed 14 surgical procedures during two days of medical services on 03 – 04 October, according to the Vanuatu Daily Post.
The figures highlight the scale of healthcare services delivered during the mission’s Pacific port visits.
Beyond healthcare, the programme includes social assistance, distribution of essential supplies, light rehabilitation of public facilities and environmental projects.
The programme also plans cultural performances, educational outreach, sports activities, and open-ship engagements to strengthen people-to-people connections between Indonesia and Pacific communities.
As a Strategic Partner of the Pacific Islands Forum, Indonesia says it remains committed to supporting the Blue Pacific’s vision of a peaceful, secure, resilient and prosperous region……PACNEWS
COOKS – DEFENCE: NZDF PACNEWS 2: Tue 13 Oct 2026
NZDF’s Ex Tropic Twilight concludes on remote Penrhyn
PENRHYN, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (NZDF)—After nearly six weeks working alongside Penrhyn locals, around 50 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel have delivered infrastructure, health, hydrographic support and friendship to one of the most remote communities in the Cook Islands.
Penrhyn, or Tongareva, is nearly 1,400km north of Rarotonga.
The NZDF’s Exercise Tropic Twilight ran from early September to mid-October and involved personnel from 25 Engineer Support Squadron, 2 Engineer Regiment, nine medical and dental personnel and eight Royal New Zealand Navy hydrography personnel. Vanuatu Mobile Force and Les Forces armées en Polynésie française personnel also took part.
NZDF Youth Development Unit personnel also supported a Blue Light youth development programme in Aitutaki.
Tropic Twilight is an annual NZDF-led, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT)-funded series of South Pacific Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief activities. The location and tasks are mutually agreed between the NZDF and MFAT, which provides project funding.
Detachment Commander, Major Cam Gurney, said the exercise aimed to strengthen the partnership between New Zealand and the Cook Islands and contribute to Pacific resilience.
“Whether working alongside the community or supporting local schools, we had the opportunity to represent New Zealand and the NZDF in a positive way.
“Looking at the friendships that have been formed and the work that we have achieved together, I believe we have succeeded.”
NZ Army engineers completed projects including construction of a laundry at the Omoka Cyclone Centre, a new shelter and water infrastructure at Omoka School, repairs to school stairs and decking, upgrades to toilet block fixtures and fittings, and the fit-out of a new life-skills classroom.
Five solar stills were installed; electrical work was completed at Te Tautua School and water tanks used to increase water collection capacity at community buildings.
NZDF health personnel worked alongside local providers and almost 60 dental patients received treatment during 17 days of clinics. They also provided checks, medication reviews and follow-ups for residents with ongoing health conditions.
Navy hydrographers surveyed Penrhyn’s navigational approaches, lagoon transit routes and other significant areas, using sonar to build a clearer picture of the seafloor and previously uncharted hazards. The information will be provided to the Cook Islands Government.
Major Gurney said the relationships developed were just as important as the physical work.
Personnel had been welcomed into Penrhyn’s homes, churches, workplaces and community life. The level of hospitality stood out across his operational and exercise experience, he said.
Penrhyn Mayor Rangi Taia said the community was grateful for both the work completed and the way personnel had become part of life on Penrhyn.
“From the bottom of the hearts of the people of Tongareva, thank you very much for the good job, the kindness and the love you have given to my people,” he said.
Major Gurney acknowledged the contribution locals had made to completing the work, both on the project sites and behind the scenes. Tongarevans had impressed him with their adaptability and hospitality, despite the challenges of such a remote environment.
“We arrived as guests, but we leave as trusted partners and friends, and that is a legacy that will endure long after the exercise has ended.”
The scale of the work required significant preplanning. Construction freight travelled by barge, while specialist tools, personnel and priority equipment were flown in by the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
Logisticians planned for and delivered around 20,000 litres of drinking water, 2,000 ration packs, 10,000 litres of diesel and about 160 cubic metres of freight, as well as thousands of construction items.
After the exercise, tools and construction materials were donated to Penrhyn for further community projects. Surplus ration packs and drinking water were also donated. ….PACNEWS
PACNEWS BIZ
PAC – FISHERIES: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Pacific fisheries adaptation offers new way to measure nutrition benefits
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2206 (PACNEWS)—Pacific Island countries could better assess how fisheries programmes improve food and nutrition security by measuring how many nutritious fish meals they provide, rather than relying on catch volumes alone, a new study says.
The study, published in npj Ocean Sustainability, introduces a “fish meals” approach to estimate how fisheries adaptations contribute to recommended dietary protein intake, using anchored fish aggregating devices (aFADs) as an example.
Fish is a major source of protein and essential nutrients across the Pacific. However, population growth, habitat degradation and climate change are placing increasing pressure on coastal fisheries, widening the gap between the amount of fish available and the quantity needed to support healthy diets.
The researchers say a practical way to measure the nutritional benefits of fisheries investments is needed to help governments and development partners determine whether programmes are delivering meaningful results for communities.
Anchored fish aggregating devices are installed in nearshore waters to attract tuna and other pelagic fish, allowing small-scale fishers to catch more fish while potentially reducing fishing costs.
The devices can help maintain local fish supplies as climate change affects coral reefs and the fish they support. They may also provide an alternative source of fish for communities whose access to coastal fishing grounds is restricted by marine protected areas or other conservation measures.
However, the study says the contribution of these devices to nutrition security remains poorly quantified, with limited information on how much their catches contribute to individual and community dietary needs.
The proposed approach converts annual tuna catches into an estimate of the number of fish meals that could help meet recommended protein requirements.
It draws on World Health Organisation guidance recommending a minimum daily protein intake of 0.7 grams per kilogram of body weight, advice that fish should provide about half of protein in Pacific Island diets, and estimates of edible fish yield and protein content.
The researchers estimate that a 150-gram portion of tuna provides about 34.5 grams of protein, enough to meet or exceed the recommended daily protein intake for many adults in the Pacific.
For children, a 75-gram portion is expected to provide about half their average daily protein needs.
Using a hypothetical coastal community of 480 people, the study estimates that an anchored fish aggregating device producing 10 tonnes of tuna annually could supply about 27 percent of the community’s fish meals needed for good nutrition.
The researchers say such estimates could help governments assess whether investments in fisheries adaptations are making a meaningful contribution to local food security and how they compare with other sources of dietary protein.
They also call for more reliable estimates of annual catches from individual devices, including information on fishing trips, catch rates and seasonal changes.
Digital tools, including mobile data-collection applications, could help fisheries authorities collect consistent information across different locations and improve estimates of the benefits delivered by national programmes.
The study stresses that increasing fish catches alone does not guarantee better nutrition. The benefits will depend on how fish is distributed, accessed and consumed within communities.
Post-harvest losses, unequal distribution and limited access to appropriate storage and handling facilities could reduce the number of meals ultimately reaching households.
Education programmes developed with local institutions and communities are also needed to promote appropriate portion sizes, equitable distribution and practices that minimise spoilage.
The researchers say the “fish meals” approach could also be adapted to assess other initiatives, including the distribution of tuna bycatch from industrial fishing fleets to urban and peri-urban communities, and increased fish production through aquaculture.
They recommend incorporating the measure into fisheries planning and evaluation to improve transparency, compare investment options and strengthen monitoring of food and nutrition security programmes.
The study concludes that fisheries adaptations should be assessed not only by how much fish they produce, but also by their potential contribution to human nutrition.
The research was conducted by an international team of fisheries, nutrition and ocean sustainability specialists and published in 2026…..PACNEWS
FIJI – FISHERIES: PACNEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Fiji consults communities on Inshore Fisheries Management Bill
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (PACNEWS) —Fiji’s Ministry of Fisheries has begun nationwide consultations on the proposed Inshore Fisheries Management Bill 2026, seeking public input on the management and sustainable use of the country’s coastal marine resources.
The consultations, running from 12 October to 04 Novemberacross Fiji’s four divisions, aim to gather views from fishers, traditional leaders, coastal communities, women, youths and other stakeholders on inshore fisheries management and community-based fisheries management.
The Ministry said the consultations would provide communities with an opportunity to contribute to policies affecting marine resources that support local livelihoods and food security.
The programme covers the Western, Northern, Central and Eastern divisions, with meetings scheduled across provinces and island groups.
In the Western Division, consultations will run from 13 – 29 October across Nadroga and Navosa, Ba and Ra.
The Northern Division programme runs from 12 – 31 October, covering Macuata, Cakaudrove and Bua.
In the Central Division, consultations are scheduled from 14 – 27 October across Tailevu, Rewa, Namosi, Serua and Naitasiri.
The Eastern Division consultations will run from October 12-04 November, covering Kadavu, Lomaiviti, Lau and Rotuma.
The Ministry is also inviting fishers, coastal communities, stakeholders and members of the public to make written submissions on the Inshore Fisheries Management Bill 2026.
Written submissions opened on 12 October and close on 30 October.
The consultation process focuses on strengthening sustainable fisheries practices, improving resource monitoring and supporting community involvement in the management of Fiji’s inshore fisheries.
The Ministry has encouraged members of the public to attend consultations in their respective areas and share their views on the proposed legislation and community-based fisheries management.
The outcome of the consultations is expected to inform discussions on the future management of Fiji’s inshore fisheries and the role of communities in protecting marine resources. …PACNEWS
FIJI – BUSINESS: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 13 Oct 2026
Business confidence drops sharply –Reserve Bank of Fiji survey
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI TIMES)—Business confidence in Fiji has declined sharply, with the latest Reserve Bank of Fiji survey showing weakening expectations for economic activity and employment despite improving investment intentions.
According to the Reserve Bank of Fiji’s The Fijian Economy – September 2026 Chart Pack, overall business confidence for the next six months fell to approximately 15 percent in February 2026, compared with around 28 percent in August 2025.
Confidence in the 12-month economic outlook also declined significantly, dropping from approximately 42 percent in August 2025 to 21 percent in February 2026.
The figures represent net survey responses, reflecting the balance between businesses expecting improvements and those anticipating deterioration.
The decline marks a significant shift from the stronger confidence levels recorded in previous years.
In December 2021, business confidence for the next 12 months stood at approximately 70 percent, while the six-month outlook was around 57 percent.
However, despite weakening overall confidence, businesses indicated stronger intentions to invest in buildings, plant and machinery.
The survey showed that the net investment outlook for buildings increased sharply to approximately 51 percent in February 2026, compared with around 21 percent in August 2025.
Investment intentions for plant and machinery also rose from approximately 35 percent to 49 percent over the same period.
This suggests that while businesses have become more cautious about the broader economic outlook, some are still planning capital investments over the next 12 months.
Employment expectations, however, paint a more concerning picture.
The net outlook for full-time employment declined to approximately 10 percent in February 2026, compared with around 34 percent in August 2025.
Part-time employment expectations also fell sharply, from approximately 32 percent to 10 percent.
These are among the weakest employment outlook readings shown in the survey since December 2020.
The Reserve Bank’s survey also highlighted changing inflation expectations among businesses.
Approximately 44 percent of respondents expected inflation to range between four and six percent over the next 12 months, while around 40 percent anticipated inflation of between one and three percent.
Another 16 percent expected inflation to exceed seven percent.
The findings indicate a mixed business environment, with improving investment intentions contrasting with weaker confidence and reduced expectations for employment growth.
While the investment outlook suggests continued interest in business expansion, the sharp decline in hiring expectations raises questions about how quickly planned investments may translate into additional employment opportunities.
The survey figures are based on February 2026 responses presented in the RBF’s September 2026 Chart Pack and reflect business expectations rather than actual investment or employment outcomes….PACNEWS
FIJI – ECONOMY: FBC NEWS PACNEWS BIZ: Tue 13 Oct 2026
UNESCO listing fails to revive Levuka economy
LEVUKA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (FBC NEWS)—Levuka’s economy is still struggling, with businesses facing challenges following the town’s UNESCO World Heritage listing, according to Levuka Town Council Special Administrator Chair, Ben Naidu.
Presenting the council’s 2019–2021 annual report to the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Naidu said the listing had not delivered the economic benefits the town had expected.
He says the way the World Heritage system was implemented, in his view, had negatively affected local businesses and contributed to the town’s economic downturn.
Naidu saidthat many people had left Levuka, while the local economy continued to struggle to recover.
“But before our heritage, we were okay. The rules were different. When heritage came, they brought in a lot of new rules, and most of the townspeople could not abide by those rules.
But having said that, heritage, it’s very good, but if it would have been implemented in the way that they had promised us at the first place, that they were going to pour in so much cash flow into the economy of Levuka town, then it would have been a good thing.”
Naidu argued that the town had been left dealing with new requirements without the expected cash flow to support businesses and development.
“One of the effects that had happened when heritage came into Levuka town was that droves of people left Levuka town and went away.
The economy of the town went down and as I speak we are still pretty low right down there and we are still struggling to get out of the place, to get out of this syndrome that we are in.”
Naidu adds that the town was still trying to recover from the downturn and needed a better way forward to ensure the heritage status delivered real economic benefits for the town….PACNEWS
PACNEWS DIGEST
The views expressed in PACNEWS are those of agencies contributing articles and do not necessarily those of PINA and/or PACNEWS
Pacific universities advance women’s leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics
SUVA, 13 OCTOBER 2026 (SPC)—A regional research initiative led by the University of the South Pacific (USP) has strengthened efforts to advance women’s leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) higher education across the Pacific.
The research, titled: “Barriers to Female Leadership for Staff at Selected Pacific Island Universities, with an emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)”, is focused on generating new evidence on career pathways barriers in STEM disciplines, institutional policies and strengthening regional capacity for further developing gender-inclusive practices in higher education for women in the Pacific.
Implemented across four Pacific Island universities – including Fiji National University (FNU), National University of Samoa (NUS) and Solomon Islands National University (SINU) – the project examined barriers and opportunities affecting women’s participation in university decision-making and leadership roles in STEM disciplines within their institutions.
The project involved collaboration beyond the four implementing universities through partnerships with the Pacific Island Universities Regional Network (PIURN), Western Sydney University, and Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Ltd.
A panel discussion, co-hosted by USP Centre for Sustainable Futures and FNU, on “Leadership and Gender Equity for Sustainable Futures” brought together students, academics, local experts, political leaders and other stakeholders from across the Pacific to share experiences, discuss challenges and identify practical strategies for advancing women’s leadership in the Pacific.
The initiative was supported through a grant from the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) under the Pacific Women Lead (PWL) programme at SPC. The grant provided supported the research into policy development and regional collaboration aimed at advancing women’s leadership in STEM and higher education across Pacific universities.
The initiative engaged more than 2,600 staff and students across the four universities through surveys, interviews, policy reviews, talanoa discussions, public panel forums and student consultations.
“This project has provided Pacific universities with valuable data and insights to better understand the challenges university women face in progressing to leadership positions and the importance of creating career pathways for marginalised groups to fully participate in decision-making,” said the project lead Associate Professor Gilianne Brodie. “The findings are already helping institutions strengthen policies, improve workplace practices and have increased awareness of unconscious bias that impacts across a range of technical, administrative and academic positions.”
A key achievement of the project was the establishment of gender-disaggregated data and STEM discipline baselines that will support universities in monitoring progress towards gender equity and inclusive leadership.
At USP, findings are already contributing to policy updates and the implementation of institutional and centre action plans. For SINU, “the project has served as a catalyst for institutional transformation by encouraging the integration of Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) principles into the University’s policies, structures, and strategic planning processes,” a senior member of the project advisory board Dr Eric Katovai shared. NUS, SINU and USP have also established of Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) committees to develop and monitor action plans.
The project team members collectively expressed that they had experienced significant individual career building outcomes as well as observing institutional benefits. The project also elevated the voices of students and underrepresented groups, ensuring that discussions on career pathways to leadership reflect the experiences of emerging leaders within Pacific higher education institutions. Dedicated efforts were made to incorporate diversity-inclusive and ethical approaches throughout the research process and project activities, including engagement with expertise in disability support services.
The project’s outcomes reinforce the importance of data-driven solutions, regional collaboration and institutional commitment in creating more inclusive and equitable learning and working environments.
The project was implemented from 17 July 2024 to 30 June 2026 and has now formally concluded. Its findings and recommendations are now available to participating institutions and stakeholders, providing an important evidence base to inform future policy reforms, leadership pathways and gender equity initiatives across Pacific higher education. As Pacific universities continue their efforts to strengthen gender equity, the initiative provides a strong contribution to supporting a new generation of women leaders and fostering a more inclusive higher education sector across the region….PACNEWS
Contact: Kalpana Prasad Nizarat, Communications Advisor, Pacific Women Lead at SPC, kalpanan@spc.int
