SODELPA recognises the importance of preserving the values, language, and traditional systems that form the heart of the iTaukei identity. The Party has long advocated for the strengthening of traditional institutions, the protection of customary land and resources, and the revival of indigenous leadership structures.
At the same time, SODELPA acknowledges that culture, heritage, and the arts belong to every Fijian β and are key to promoting unity, pride, and creativity across all communities.
Our Vision
A Fiji where the iTaukei people are confident in their cultural identity and empowered through their institutions; where heritage is protected and celebrated; and where arts and culture thrive as powerful forces for economic growth, national unity, and creativity.
Key Policy Priorities
1. Strengthening Vanua Governance & Indigenous Institutions
- Revive and support traditional structures such as the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) and empower provincial and village councils.
- Uphold native land rights and ensure traditional leadership plays an active role in national development.
- Strengthen the capacity of iTaukei institutions, such as the iTaukei Lands and Fisheries Commission, to effectively manage land, culture, and community affairs.
2. Cultural Identity, Language & Heritage Preservation
- Preserve and promote the iTaukei language, traditions, and intangible heritage, including customs, meke, crafts, and ceremonies.
- Protect tangible heritage such as sacred sites, historical landmarks, museums, and cultural archives.
- Develop a National Cultural Policy to guide the preservation and promotion of all Fijian cultures and traditions.
3. Arts, Creative Industries & Cultural Economy
- Support artists, performers, and creative enterprises through grants, training, and access to resources.
- Develop art and cultural centres across Fiji to promote creativity, storytelling, music, and visual arts.
- Integrate culture and the arts into tourism and national development strategies to create employment and economic opportunities.
4. Land, Natural Resources & Cultural Heritage
- Safeguard traditional lands, fishing grounds, forests, and waterways that hold cultural and spiritual significance.
- Encourage sustainable management of natural resources through a blend of traditional knowledge and modern practices.
- Ensure all land and environmental policies respect cultural values and the rights of traditional custodians.
5. Education, Youth & Cultural Transmission
- Integrate culture, heritage, and indigenous knowledge into the national education curriculum.
- Support youth and community programmes that teach traditional arts, crafts, and languages.
- Encourage mentorship and apprenticeships to ensure traditional skills are passed on to future generations.
6. Inclusiveness and National Cohesion
- While upholding iTaukei identity, promote cultural understanding and respect among all ethnic groups.
- Encourage intercultural exchange and dialogue to strengthen unity and shared national pride.
- Ensure that women, youth, and persons with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in cultural and artistic programmes.
7. Institutional Support & Accountability
- Allocate sufficient funding and resources to the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs, Culture, Heritage & Arts.
- Establish clear structures for cultural governance and heritage protection.
- Set measurable goals for cultural development, ensuring transparency and accountability in programme delivery.
Looking Ahead
As SODELPA prepares for the 2026 General Election, the Party renews its commitment to preserving Fijiβs cultural soul and strengthening the foundation of identity, unity, and creativity.
Through respect for tradition, empowerment of indigenous institutions, and investment in the arts, SODELPA envisions a Fiji where culture is cherished, heritage is preserved, and creativity drives economic and social progress for all.