Retired Lieutenant Colonel Neumi Leweni, known for his services as a spokesperson for the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), diplomat, and civil servant, has taken on a remarkable task: to document the 50-year history of the Fiji Navy. As part of a special contract, Lt Col Leweni is spearheading the creation of a commemorative book while also preparing the Navy’s golden jubilee celebrations set for July 2024.
This initiative originated in 2021 when Lt Col Leweni was approached by Rear Admiral Humphrey Tawake, who is now the Deputy Commander of the RFMF. Together, they assembled a dedicated team in September 2021 to navigate through various challenges, primarily a lack of comprehensive historical records. To overcome this obstacle, they have relied heavily on sources such as The Fiji Times and Fiji Sun to piece together essential stories and details, whittling down the Navy’s rich legacy into a comprehensive narrative.
The book aims to serve two main audiences: the general public and academic institutions. Lt Col Leweni emphasizes that taxpayers deserve to understand the contributions of the Navy, while students will find valuable resources documenting the institution’s journey from 1975 until the present day. The book is structured chronologically by decade, mapping critical milestones including the Navy’s roles in peacekeeping missions and its growing response to modern maritime threats.
With support from the University of the South Pacific, the publication will earn an International Standard Book Number (ISBN), ensuring its authenticity and usability for future research. The book will also feature personal narratives from pioneers, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the Navy’s journey.
As the jubilee approaches, Lt Col Leweni has revealed that public activities will commence two weeks before the official anniversary on July 25, 2024. These events will allow the public to engage with the Navy, including open ship tours and exhibitions demonstrating its operational capabilities.
Reflecting on the Navy’s evolution over the decades, Lt Col Leweni views this jubilee not merely as a celebratory occasion but as a crucial moment to recognize the institution’s significant contributions to national security and regional stability.
This undertaking symbolizes a commitment to preserving and understanding Fiji’s military heritage, offering a sense of pride and collective identity within the nation. As Fiji advances towards the jubilee celebrations, there exists a moment to appreciate the Navy’s transformative journey while fostering hope for its continued role in securing Fiji’s maritime future.
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