President of the Republic of Fiji, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu, and First Lady, Emily Lalabalavu were formally invested as Chief Scout and Patron of the Fiji Girl Guides Association, respectively, in a ceremony held at State House this week.

The event brought together Commissioners of the Fiji Scouts Association and the Fiji Girl Guides Association to mark the investiture and renew commitments to youth development in Fiji.

In his speech, President Lalabalavu spoke candidly about the challenges facing young people in Fiji today, including the rise in illicit drug use and its connection to increasing cases of HIV. He urged Scouts, Rangers, Guides, and Brownies to cultivate moral strength and spiritual discipline, and to reject harmful influences.

“As a former Sea Scout, I know firsthand the life skills and values the movement instills—leadership, teamwork, compassion, and service,” said the President. “These programs help our youth grow into citizens who serve their communities and nation with purpose.”

He also acknowledged the dedication of Scout and Guide Commissioners, many of whom are teachers volunteering their time, noting their “tireless and often unrecognised service.”

First Lady Emily Lalabalavu, in her address as the newly invested Patron of the Girl Guides, affirmed her support for empowering girls and young women across Fiji. She stressed the need to eliminate barriers to girls’ participation, including discrimination, violence, and lack of accessibility for girls with disabilities.

With current Girl Guide membership at 10,850, she expressed hope for further growth by the end of the year.

“The Fiji Girl Guides Association continues to nurture discipline, confidence, and resilience in young girls,” she said. “We want them to face life’s challenges with strength and purpose.”

Globally, the Scouts and Girl Guides movements are among the largest youth networks, promoting values like service, leadership, and respect. In Fiji, scouting has been active for 110 years, with over 13,000 members participating nationwide.

The Fiji Scouts Association also held its Annual General Meeting following the ceremony, during which office bearers for 2025–2026 were elected.