Tuvalu makes history with first woman Governor-General

Tuvalu has appointed its first woman Governor-General as Temukisa Auina Penehuro Hauma took office on the eve of the country's 48th Independence anniversary.

The 71-year-old was sworn in at Niutao Hall in Funafuti on Wednesday and begins her four-year term as Tuvalu's representative to the Crown.

Acting Chief Justice Sir John Muria administered the Oath of Office and Oath of Allegiance as required under the Constitution.

Prime Minister Feleti Teo described Hauma's appointment as a milestone for the country.

“It is a historic moment for Tuvalu as she becomes the first woman to hold this position,” Teo said.

Hauma said she wanted her time in office to include a focus on women in Tuvalu.

Tuvaluans celebrate in Funafuti as the country also marks 48 years of independence on Thursday. Photo/Facebook/Tuvalu.TV

“I look forward to leading the nation and empowering our people, especially the women of Tuvalu,” she said.

Her appointment brings more than three decades of experience in education and community leadership to the role.

Hauma spent 12 years as a headmistress and holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of the South Pacific and a Master of Business Administration.

Watch Temukisa Auina Penehuro Hauma sworn in as Tuvalu's new Governor-General.

She has also served as President of the Tuvalu National Council of Women since 2016.

Her work has included involvement in the review of Tuvalu's Constitution and efforts to develop a Tuvaluan dictionary. She also has family links to Vaitupu and Nanumaga.

The change comes as Tuvalu marks 48 years since independence on Thursday, which adds a significant leadership milestone to the country's national celebrations.

In New Zealand, the diaspora is celebrating Vaiaso o te 'Gana Tuvalu – Tuvalu Language Week, which started on Sunday, 27 September and ends on Saturday, 3 October.

Hauma succeeds Reverend Sir Tofiga Vaevalu Falani, who served as Governor-General for five years.

Teo thanked Falani for his service before welcoming Hauma into the role.

Tuvaluan communities in New Zealand celebrate Tuvalu Language Week, recognising the language and culture of Tuvalu. Photo/Facebook/NZ Tuvalu Language Week

The swearing-in ceremony included a Guard of Honour and General Salute by the Tuvalu Police Service.

Celebrations then continued at Niutao Hall with food provided by the Niutao community and fatele performances by the Vaitupu and Nanumaga communities, recognising Hauma's heritage.