Suva, Fiji -The Chiefs and members of the Kadavu Provincial Council have recently agreed unanimously to the piloting of the ‘Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki’ model in the Kadavu Province.

The model also known as CVM-CMS (Community Policing-Vanua-Multi-agencies Crime Prevention and Maritime Security) was launched by the Prime Minister Hon, Sitiveni Rabuka at the opening of the Bose ni Yasana ko Kadavu on 2 July, in which he emphasized a whole of Fiji approach to preventing criminal and security activities arising on land or at sea and integrated efforts by government departments and other agencies in taking the lead.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recent visit to the UK underscored the importance of international partnerships in strengthening maritime security and domain awareness.

During the launch of the model, Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted the need for increased community awareness regarding maritime vigilance. This initiative aligns with his vision of an ‘ocean of peace’ for Fiji and the Pacific Region.

The pilot project aims to strategically leverage the role of the Vanua in monitoring and reporting suspicious activities at sea. The CVM-CMS model involves the effective and efficient collaboration between the coastal villages Crime Prevention Committees, empowerment of the Turaga ni Koro in coordinating and facilitating initial actions and timely referral of agencies’ response based-information to responders and formation of the Fishing and Boat Operators Security Cluster as ‘Eyes and Ears’ at sea.

The involvement of the Vanua and maritime-based agencies in increasing security vigilance and capacity, along Fiji’s open coasts, is critical.  Chairman of the Bose ni Yasana o Kadavu, Isikeli Vuniwaqa, explained the model’s practical implications: “Fishermen and women who spend hours at sea now have the opportunity to report suspicious yachts or illegal fishing activities to authorities for intelligence gathering and action.” He added, “This is about protecting our communities and guarding Fiji’s maritime resources.”

Nationally, the Maritime Security Committee (MSC) has been active, finalizing its terms of reference and clearly defining its objectives. These efforts ensure Fiji is well-prepared to address current and future maritime threats through a multi-agency approach.

The MSC unites key actors from Fisheries, Foreign Affairs, Fiji Police Force, Fiji Navy, MSAF, Biosecurity, and Revenue and Customs, coming together at a crucial time for Fiji’s maritime security.

Mason Smith, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration, stated, “The security of Fiji’s maritime space is paramount. The detailed discussions at the recent MSC meeting demonstrate our unwavering commitment to protecting Fiji’s waters. By finalizing our terms of reference and clearly defining the committee's objectives, we are poised to confront current and future maritime threats head-on.”

Key discussions also centered around developing a comprehensive maritime security strategy, ensuring all involved agencies are aligned in their efforts. This strategy emphasizes the need for strategic coherence and unified actions to safeguard Fiji’s maritime domain.

Dr Brian Jones, UK High Commissioner, said:

“The United Kingdom resolutely supports Fiji safeguarding its vital maritime territory. We collaborate closely and align our support with Fiji's existing initiatives and broader frameworks including UNCLOS and 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. The UK’s support to Fiji’s Maritime Security Committee will ensure its efforts effectively address the most pressing maritime security threats, to the most vulnerable, including women and girls in our communities."

All these efforts are being coordinated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with funding support from the UK Government. This collaboration highlights the shared commitment to enhancing maritime security and fostering sustainable development, ensuring that Fiji’s maritime resources are protected for future generations.

For further media enquiries please contact:

Nick Turner, Communications and Advocacy Specialist | UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) nicholas.turner@undp.org or Risiate Biudole, Communications Analyst | UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji | (E) risiate.biudole@undp.org