Former Fiji Pearls coach Unaisi Rokoura lost her life in a tragic drowning accident while collecting freshwater mussels at Navuso Agriculture School. The incident occurred yesterday morning when Rokoura, along with two other women, was caught in strong currents and swept underwater. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a 34-year-old woman struggling to cling to Rokoura before both disappeared from sight.
Rescue teams have since recovered the body of the woman who was with Rokoura, currently located at Mokani morgue, while the search for Rokoura continues. This heartbreaking event highlights the critical need for increased awareness of water safety, especially in areas prone to strong currents.
This tragedy mirrors past incidents in Fiji where drowning has become a significant issue, with the country experiencing 53 drowning deaths this year, an alarming increase from the previous year. Such occurrences illustrate the unpredictable nature of water environments and the vital importance of practicing caution during water activities.
As the community reels from the loss of Rokoura and the other victim, there is a shared sense of hope for unity and resilience. In the face of grief, communities can come together, advocating for safer practices and supporting one another during difficult times. These collective efforts could lead to greater awareness of water safety measures, potentially preventing similar incidents in the future.