Mrs. Sandradee Fonua Fifita of Fangaloto, Tongatapu has been appointed the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Ministry of Tourism, replacing former CEO Viliami Takau, for a four-year term, effective from 15 June 2026.

Mrs. Fifita brings more than 30 years of leadership in public service across a range of sectors, including tourism, trade, commerce, and consumer affairs.

Throughout her career, she has held several senior management and executive leadership roles within government and has made significant contributions to policy development, institutional strengthening, and regional and international engagement on behalf of Tonga.

She is widely recognised for her strong leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to advancing national development initiatives and strengthening public sector service delivery.

Mrs. Fifita holds tertiary qualifications from the University of the South Pacific and Wellington Polytechnic in New Zealand.

"Her professional experience and academic background position her well to lead the Ministry of Tourism in delivering its mandate and supporting the continued growth of Tonga's tourism sector," the  Public Service Commission (PSC) stated.

Her appointment follows an open and competitive recruitment process conducted by PSC and has been endorsed by the Minister for Tourism and Cabinet.

Mrs. Fifita is the fifth female CEO appointed among the 18 CEO positions across the government.