Military Meets Community: A New Era of Collaboration in Fiji

The Commanding Officer of the 3rd Battalion Fiji Infantry Regiment (3FIR), Lieutenant Colonel Pio Varawa, made his inaugural official visit to the Assault Pioneers Section in Yacata Village, Yacata Island, on April 29, 2025. This visit marks the commencement of a series of inspections scheduled for deployed units outside of the Suva Headquarters.

Lt. Col. Varawa was accompanied by key personnel including Battalion Operations Officer Captain W. Aka, Adjutant Lieutenant T. Vakatawa, and Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer Class One J. Rokobiau. During the visit, he toured the site of a nearly completed village church, an important project facilitated by the deployed engineers. This endeavor fosters community relations and showcases the contribution of military personnel beyond traditional roles.

The event highlighted a traditional sevusevu ceremony and an open talanoa session, allowing members of the military to engage with local villagers. During his address, Lt. Col. Varawa praised the engineers for their steadfastness and commitment while stationed in a remote area, acknowledging the challenges they face being away from family. He expressed gratitude to the Yacata community for their continuous support, emphasizing, “This church represents more than just a building—it is a symbol of your service and the strong partnership between the RFMF and the communities we serve.”

This installation marks one of the first significant engineering projects undertaken by the Assault Pioneers in decades, presenting a pivotal moment in enhancing 3FIR’s engineering capabilities. Troops expressed their appreciation for Lt. Col. Varawa’s visit, describing his presence as encouraging and motivating.

The visit not only strengthens military-community relations but also lays the foundation for future collaborative projects that will benefit both the Fijian Armed Forces and local communities. Such initiatives are vital in reinforcing the military’s role in nation-building and community development, offering a hopeful perspective on the potential impact of military presence and involvement in civilian affairs.