In Oinafa, Rotuma, Fiji, communities, elders, and youth from all seven districts gathered to celebrate the graduation of 127 participants who successfully completed the Boatmaster and Restricted Master Engineer 6 training. This milestone marks a significant step toward strengthening maritime safety, resilience, and livelihoods across the island.
The training was delivered through a partnership between the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, the Fiji Police Force, the Republic of the Fiji Navy, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority, and the UN Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the Government of the United Kingdom. It forms part of the Maritime Security Project under Fiji’s National Security Strategy and follows the Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki model — a community-based approach promoting shared responsibility between government, security agencies, and local communities for safer seas and stronger maritime governance.
British High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Kanbar Hossein Bor, commended the graduates for their achievements, noting that their new skills will contribute to the safety and prosperity of Rotuma. He highlighted the enduring partnership between the UK and Rotuma, which has strengthened over nearly 150 years. Deputy Secretary of Defence Ms. Sainitiki Ravuso emphasized that the initiative fosters stronger links between communities and Fiji’s national maritime security system. Chairman of the Rotuma Council, Gagaj Samuela Manav, expressed gratitude for bringing such training opportunities to the island, acknowledging its role in enhancing local skills and community safety.
The British High Commission’s support also included providing essential maritime safety equipment to bolster community-led initiatives in ensuring safe travel, livelihoods, and marine protection. To date, over 660 individuals — including women, youth, and people with disabilities — across Fiji’s maritime regions have received certification through this programme. The initiative equips island communities with the knowledge and confidence to respond to emergencies and promote a culture of safety at sea.
UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to continue working alongside the Government of Fiji, the British High Commission, and the people of Rotuma to build safer and more resilient maritime communities, ensuring that no island is left behind in achieving secure and sustainable livelihoods.
