Approximately 70 officers from the Republic of Fiji Navy, along with personnel from the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service and the Fiji Police Water Police Unit, have successfully completed the Boat Master Licence and Restricted Master Engineer Licence Class training. A graduation ceremony took place at the Naval Base in Walu Bay to celebrate this achievement, marking a significant advancement in Fiji’s commitment to bolstering maritime safety and security.
Minister for Defence Pio Tikoduadua emphasized the criticality of protecting Fiji’s maritime space for national security, particularly in light of rising threats such as drug trafficking. He stated, “Maritime safety and security are national priorities for Fiji. As an island nation, our security, economy, and daily life depend on safe and well-governed seas. Maritime space is Fiji’s most important space for national security.”
The Minister also acknowledged the financial and technical support provided by the United Kingdom, UNDP, and MSAF, which made this capacity-building initiative possible. The UNDP reinforces that ensuring maritime security requires cooperation among various maritime agencies, highlighting that challenges like transnational crime cannot be effectively managed by a single unit. Team Leader Effective Governance and Inclusive Growth for UNDP Pacific, Rustam Pulatov, noted that the core of the training focuses on safety and lives’ protection, along with securing government assets and enhancing confidence in maritime operations. This collaborative approach also reinforces accountability and professionalism among the agencies, which is essential in challenging maritime environments.
Navy Chief Commodore Timoci Natuva underlined the importance of capacity building, stating that enhancing officers’ skills ensures they are better equipped to perform their duties efficiently. Following the graduation, a total of 110 officers are now certified to operate small boats and assist in search and rescue operations, playing crucial roles in safeguarding Fiji’s borders and residents.
This training initiative represents a proactive step toward improving maritime capabilities in Fiji, fostering safety and security while addressing potential threats effectively. The ongoing collaboration and commitment from various agencies further reflect an optimistic outlook for Fiji’s maritime strategy, ultimately contributing to the nation’s stability and security.