The CFD works to encourage and bring together Deaf in Fiji. This group aims to address the challenges facing Deaf in this region. Some of the key issues facing the Deaf are: loneliness/isolation, ignorance, depression, unemployment, family breakdown and domestic violence.
Tuliana Waibuta
Leadership CFD chair = Tuliana Waibuta, working with a committee, and in close relationship with the CFD in the West, led by Mesake Qionilase, in Lautoka.
COVID Update Suva-based Bola Omopariola is now running Zoom meetings for the CFD, on Saturdays and Sundays. Bola arrived in Fiji in February 2020, from Nigeria. He is Deaf. Adjusting to Fijian culture and learning Fijian Sign Language has been a challenge. He is now a member of the CFD committee and an important part of the team.
Regular Activities The CFD runs a Suva-based youth group and Sunday School. They also work with the hearing children of Deaf parents. On Saturday evenings the CFD youth meet at the Gospel School for Deaf for an evening together and a Bible Study. An adult home group meets once a week. Twice a year there are camps to which Deaf come from all over Fiji. A very active CFD group also operates in Lautoka under the leadership of Mesake Qionilase. Mesake and Seriana in Lautoka, and Tuliana, in Suva, regularly welcome Deaf into their homes.
CAMPS - Easter Camp and August Camp These camps are growing in popularity. There were up to 50 at the 2021 Easter Camp.