Levuka, Ovalau, October 31, 2025 – Minister for Fisheries & Forestry, Hon. Alitia Bainivalu emphasized the importance of collective action and community support in the fight against breast cancer during the PAFCO Pinktober morning tea celebration held at the Pacific Fishing Company (PAFCO) in Levuka.
With respectful acknowledgment of the traditional owners of the land, the vanua o Nabukebuke, the Hon. Minister expressed gratitude for the warm reception from the PAFCO community, including employees, management, and local residents.
Reflecting on her past visits to the PAFCO facility as a technical staff member, she expressed pride in the company’s resilience and commitment to its roots. As the Minister now overseeing fisheries, she reaffirmed her dedication to revitalizing the fishing community in Ovalau and strengthening local industries.
However, the primary focus of her address was to highlight the significance of Pinktober—a month dedicated to raising awareness about breast cancer. She emphasized that Pinktober is more than a symbol; it is a call to active support, to honor those affected, and to advocate for early detection.
“Breast cancer is a cruel illness that touches not just individuals but entire families,” she said. “It is a deeply personal journey filled with fear and uncertainty. Today, we stand in solidarity with every woman in the fight, with their families, and with friends who support them.”
Hon. Bainivalu also paid tribute to those who have lost their battle with breast cancer, acknowledging their enduring legacy and the importance of remembering their courage. She urged the community to break the silence surrounding the disease, replacing fear with knowledge and encouraging women to prioritize their health and seek help without hesitation.
The Minister celebrated the resilience of survivors and the strength of the community coming together to support one another. She underscored that collective effort is essential—just as the Ministry and PAFCO work in partnership, so too must the community unite against breast cancer.
She called on everyone to view the Pinktober event as a symbol of hope. The Hon. Minister urged continued dialogue, support, and community action to ensure that no one faces this journey alone.
“Let this morning tea be a symbol of our shared hope,” she said. “Together, we can make a difference.”
Hon. Bainivalu and her team also had a meeting with Saiyad Raiyum, the Chief Executive Officer of PAFCO, and Operations Manager, Ashok Raj, prior to their visit and tour of the PAFCO facility. This meeting served as an opportunity to engage in preliminary talks, exchange important information, and perhaps discuss any relevant topics or collaborations related to the facility. It also helped to establish a rapport and ensure that the team was well-informed before proceeding with their inspection of the PAFCO operations.