Nacanieli Waqa has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF), effective from 21 October 2026.

The appointment was confirmed following its publication in the Fiji Government Gazette under Section 10 of the Biosecurity Act 2008.

Mr Waqa brings more than 34 years of experience in biosecurity, regulatory systems and international trade facilitation. He has held senior technical and advisory positions with New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries, the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Fiji Quarantine and Inspection Service.

BAF Board Chairman Uraia Waibuta welcomed the appointment, highlighting the Authority’s responsibility to protect Fiji’s agriculture, environment, biodiversity and economy while supporting safe international trade.

Mr Waibuta said the Board looked forward to working with Mr Waqa to strengthen operational effectiveness, accountability, financial sustainability and service delivery.

In his new role, Mr Waqa will lead BAF in carrying out its responsibilities under the Biosecurity Act 2008 and advancing its strategic priorities in line with Fiji’s National Development Plan and relevant United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Mr Waqa said biosecurity protects not only the country’s borders but also farmers’ livelihoods, food supplies and the natural resources communities depend on. He looks forward to working with staff, stakeholders and the public to strengthen these protections and build a safer, more resilient Fiji.