The Board of Directors of the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Nacanieli Waqa as Chief Executive Officer, effective 21 October 2026, following the formal publication of his appointment in the Fiji Government Gazette in accordance with Section 10 of the Biosecurity Act 2008.
The appointment follows a structured and competitive recruitment process guided by the principles of transparency, merit, fairness and good corporate governance.
The Board is confident that Mr. Waqa will provide the leadership necessary to strengthen the Authority’s institutional performance and advance its strategic priorities in ensuring that BAF remains a trusted, respected and high-performing competent authority.
Mr. Waqa brings over 34 years of experience in biosecurity, regulatory systems and international trade facilitation, having held senior technical and advisory roles with New Zealand’s Ministry for Primary Industries, the Pacific Community (SPC) and Fiji Quarantine & Inspection Service. His extensive regional and international experience in strategic leadership, governance and stakeholder engagement will be valuable in advancing BAF’s statutory mandate.
BAF Board Chairman, Mr. Uraia Waibuta, welcomed the appointment, highlighting the Authority’s critical role in protecting Fiji’s agriculture, environment, biodiversity and economy.
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He further highlighted the importance of collaboration with government ministries, regulatory agencies, industry stakeholders, regional and international partners and the wider community in maintaining an effective national biosecurity system.
As CEO, Mr. Waqa will lead the Authority in fulfilling its statutory mandate under the Biosecurity Act 2008 and advancing its strategic priorities in support of Fiji’s National Development Plan and relevant United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Mr. Waqa acknowledged the significance of his appointment and the responsibilities ahead.
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The Board congratulates Mr. Waqa on his appointment and extends its best wishes for a successful tenure, reaffirming its commitment to supporting strong leadership, effective governance and the advancement of Fiji’s national biosecurity priorities.