In Fiji Indigenous Fijians (predominantly Melanesian with a Polynesian ad-mixture) make up about 50.8% of the population, Indo-Fijians make up 43.7%, and 5.5% other. English is the official language, although the widely used Fijian language has many dialects. The most commonly used is known as Bavan Fijian, while the Indians speak Fiji-Hindi. Most people speak two languages: English and the language of their own racial community. Fiji is a multi-religious state, made obvious by the beautiful Christian churches, Mosques, Sikh, and Hindu Temples in towns and through out the countryside. More than half the population are Christians 52.9%, the rest is made of Hindus 38.1%, Muslims 7.8%, Sikhs .7%, and those with no religion .4%.
Government.
Fiji became an independent nation on October 14, 1970 from the United Kingdom, and celebrate their Independence on the second Monday of October. Fiji was declared a Republic on October 6, 1987 by Military Coup leader Maj. Gen. Sitiveni Rabuka. IN their Republic there is an Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branch. In the government there is a Chief of State, which Ratu Jusefa Iloilovatu Ulviuvda was elected to in 2000, vice president Jope Seniloli, Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase, a Deputy Prime Minister, and a cabinet that is appointed by the Prime Minister.
Environment.
Fiji has a few natural resources in timber, fish, gold, copper, offshore oil potential, and hydro power. Fiji does not really use its land for that many major uses. 11% is arable land, 5% permanent crops, and84% other. Natural hazards that affect Fiji are volcanic activity, and cyclonic storms that occur from November to January. Deforestation, and soil erosion are the only environmental issues that are affecting the country, but that is not seen as a big deal at this time.
Economics.
The GDP-per capita purchasing power parity for Fiji is estimated at $5,200. The GDP real growth rate estimated for 2001 is 1%.
