The Public Service Commission (PSC) has announced the appointment of Mrs Sandradee Fonua Fifita as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ministry of Tourism, marking a significant leadership change within the government sector.
According to an official press release issued on Thursday, Mrs Fifita, of Fangaloto in Tongatapu, will assume the role for a four-year term beginning 15 June 2026.
Fifita brings more than three decades of experience in public service, having worked across key sectors including tourism, trade, commerce, and consumer affairs. Throughout her career, she has held several senior management and executive leadership positions within government.
The PSC highlighted her substantial contributions to policy development, institutional strengthening, and engagement at both regional and international levels on behalf of Tonga. She is also widely recognised for her leadership, strategic vision, and dedication to advancing national development and improving the delivery of public sector services.
Fifita holds tertiary qualifications from the University of the South Pacific and Wellington Polytechnic in New Zealand. The Commission noted that her academic background, combined with extensive professional experience, positions her well to lead the Ministry of Tourism and support the continued growth of Tonga’s tourism sector.
Her appointment follows an open and competitive recruitment process conducted by the PSC and has been endorsed by the Minister for Tourism and Cabinet.
In addition to the leadership transition, the appointment represents progress in gender representation, with Fifita becoming the fifth female CEO among the 18 chief executive positions across the government.
The PSC also acknowledged the service of the outgoing CEO, Mr. Viliami Takau, expressing appreciation for his dedicated contributions and wishing him success in his future endeavours.
Fifita’s contract was formally signed on 28 May 2026 in Nuku’alofa in the presence of PSC officials, government leaders, and family members.
