A step forward in community empowerment and security took place as more than 100 villagers from Solotavui, Kadavu graduated after completing specialised training for Boat Master License and Restricted Engineer Class 6.
The graduation ceremony was officiated on Friday (29.08.25) by the Minister for Policing Hon. Ioane Naivalurua, alongside prominent international officials, including the British High Commissioner to Fiji, Mr. Kanbar Hossein-Bor, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative for the Pacific, Ms. Munkhtuya Altangerel Tuya.
The Boat Master License and Restricted Engineer Class 6 was initially for the women of Solotavui, however, men also took a keen interest in the training and joined.
Minister Naivalurua congratulated the graduates, and he reminded them of their contribution towards maritime security, economic empowerment and resilience.
“Our graduates will form part of the Fishing and Boat Operators Security Cluster, becoming the ‘eyes and ears’ at sea, helping to safeguard our coasts and marine resources while providing for their families.”
“You are receiving trust, responsibility, and the opportunity to shape the future of your families and communities.”
“This is how we cultivate a culture of national security consciousness where awareness, vigilance, and responsibility are not left only to the police or the state but are carried in the daily lives of our citizens,” Minister Naivalurua said.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Government, “vanua” and the church, where security enforcement is rooted in people.
“The CVM-CMS Model referred to in I’Taukei as the Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki: Matanitu, Vanua kei na Lotu is so important. It brings together the Government, the Vanua, the Church, and the community to share responsibility, uphold the rule of law, and promote human security.”
At Solotavuki, Minister Naivalurua reiterated his team’s clear guided mission to rebrand Kadavu, focusing on awareness and community outreach to be at the forefront of tackling the cultivation of illicit drug substances.
“My visit to Kadavu this week is guided by a clear mission: to support and strengthen frontline integrated enforcement efforts. These efforts target illegal cultivation and trafficking of drugs, the illicit movement of contraband and transnational organised crime activities through our waters, illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and the increasing threats and negative impacts of climate change.”
Minister Naivalurua acknowledged the effort of international partners, including the government of the United Kingdom and the United Nations family, for providing assistance in maritime safety, security, community resilience, and livelihoods. He reaffirms partnerships between the Coalition Government and international agencies to provide sustainability and support the development of Fiji’s Maritime Security Strategy.