A multi-agency team has successfully established Crime Prevention Maritime Security Committees for nine tikinas in Kadavu, with the support of the UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji. This initiative stems from the Community Policing-Vanua-Multi-agencies Crime Prevention and Maritime Security model, which was introduced by Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka during the Kadavu Provincial Council meeting in July.
The initiative, named “Solesolevaki ni Veitaqomaki; Matanitu, Vanua kei na Lotu,” aims to enhance community policing and maritime security for coastal communities. It seeks to combine traditional customary authority with vanua governance, ensuring effective crime prevention and improved maritime security.
By employing a collaborative approach with various stakeholders, including the Republic of Fiji Navy, Fiji Police Force, and other key ministries, the initiative empowers licensed boat operators and local community members to act as the ‘eyes and ears at sea.’ This effort strengthens the monitoring of Fiji’s maritime zones. Kadavu was chosen to be the pilot site for this solesolevaki initiative.