Fiji, officially known as the Republic of Fiji, is an island country located in the South Pacific Ocean. It is an archipelago consisting of more than 330 islands, of which 110 are permanently inhabited. The two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, account for 87% of the total population of about 883,483 people. The capital, Suva, is located on Viti Levu.
Fiji is situated approximately 1,300 miles northeast of New Zealand’s North Island. The country covers a total area of around 18,274 square kilometers. The islands of Fiji are mountainous, with peaks up to 1,324 meters, and covered with thick tropical forests. The coastline is a combination of beautiful sandy beaches and rocky areas.
Fiji has a tropical marine climate, with only slight seasonal temperature variation. The warm season, from November to April, is characterized by heavy, brief local showers and contributes most of Fiji’s annual rainfall. The cooler season, from May to October, has significantly less rainfall.
Fiji was first settled about 3,500 years ago. The original inhabitants are now known as “Lapita people” after a distinctive type of fine pottery they produced. Europeans first landed in Fiji in the 17th century, and British colonial rule was established in the 19th century. Fiji gained its independence in 1970 but maintained the British monarch as the head of state.
Fiji is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Parliament of Fiji is unicameral and is based on the Westminster system.
Fiji has a diverse economy with a strong emphasis on tourism, which is the fastest-growing sector. Other significant sectors include sugar, clothing, and mining. Fiji’s currency is the Fijian dollar.
Fijian culture is a rich mosaic of indigenous, Indian, Chinese and European traditions, comprising social polity, language, food (lovo), costume, belief systems, architecture, arts, craft, music, dance, and sports.
Education in Fiji is compulsory and free for eight years. English is the medium of instruction in schools, and there are significant numbers of public and private primary and secondary schools. Fiji also has a university and several other tertiary institutions.
