Twenty-two officers from the Fiji Police Force successfully completed their Pre-Deployment Training in a ceremony led by Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (A/ACP) Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe. This event marks their preparation for an upcoming deployment to South Sudan as part of a United Nations peacekeeping mission, where they will serve in dual roles as peacekeepers and as ambassadors of Fiji.
During the ceremony, A/ACP Vusonilawe emphasized the importance of their responsibilities, stating, “You’re not only supporting peace and security abroad; you’re carrying the proud banner of the Fiji Police Force and the nation.” The comprehensive training program included core Pre-Deployment Training Material (CPTM 2024), refresher courses in UN standards, and job-specific modules focused on mentoring, community policing, and operational safety.
The officers were selected after successfully passing the Fiji SAAT 2022 assessment, which ensured they met international standards for UN service. A/ACP Vusonilawe encouraged the team to bring back valuable lessons from their mission to enhance local policing in Fiji, reinforcing the notion that insights gained during their deployment will contribute to the continuous development of their institution.
This deployment reflects Fiji’s steadfast commitment to international peacekeeping, a commitment that is further highlighted by the Elsie Initiative, which focuses on increasing women’s participation in uniformed roles. The inclusion of female officers in peacekeeping missions not only enhances the effectiveness of their operations but also serves as an inspiring step toward gender equality within the Fiji Police Force.
The successful completion of this training and the upcoming deployment signify a proactive approach to international collaboration and security efforts, promoting hope for a more stable future, both regionally and globally. The dedication of the Fiji Police Force to fostering community trust and enhancing peacekeeping capabilities underscores their vital role in promoting stability on the international stage.
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