Fifty-two people from government agencies, local communities and other stakeholder groups have strengthened their maritime skills after completing a five-day Class 6 Restricted Boat Master Training in Lautoka.

The training, funded by the Mamanuca Marine Protection Rescue Initiative (MMPRI) and delivered by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), was held at the Lautoka Police Headquarters.

Participants included representatives from Nabila, Yako and Cuvu, alongside personnel from government agencies and community representatives. All 52 participants successfully met the requirements and earned their Class 6 Restricted Boat Master qualification.

For communities and organisations involved in maritime patrols and emergency operations, the qualification provides an important boost to the skills available on the water, particularly in situations requiring coordinated response, rescue and enforcement.

The programme is part of MMPRI’s wider commitment under its Memorandum of Understanding with the Fiji Police Force, as well as its collaboration with other government stakeholders.

At the opening of the training, Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu stressed the importance of agencies working together to maintain peace, safety and stability. MSAF senior executive Save Cavalevu delivered the closing address, also highlighting the need for strong cooperation among institutions and stakeholders.

The message from both institutions was clear: effective maritime enforcement and emergency response depend on agencies working collectively rather than operating independently.

MMPRI Managing Director Kevin Rotseart said the organisation’s support extends beyond financing maritime patrols, with a focus on ensuring those involved have the training and equipment needed to carry out their duties safely and professionally.

“Our commitment goes beyond funding patrols. We want to ensure that the people participating in these operations are properly trained, equipped and empowered to perform their responsibilities safely and professionally,” Rotseart said.

MMPRI said it will continue supporting multi-stakeholder maritime patrols while investing in training and capacity building for joint taskforce members and participating communities.

The organisation is also encouraging businesses operating in and around the Mamanuca region, including resorts and tourism operators, as well as donors and other stakeholders, to contribute to the initiative.

Such support, MMPRI said, will help sustain maritime patrols, training programmes, community engagement and marine protection efforts.

The initiative reflects a broader effort involving government agencies, communities and the private sector to improve maritime safety, strengthen emergency preparedness and protect Fiji’s marine environment and tourism-dependent communities.