Maintaining consistency and capability out at sea is a challenge for the Fiji Navy as they continue to keep our borders safe.

Commander Captain Humphrey Tawake says the transportation of illegal drugs by sea is a major threat and they’re learning to work smartly to curb these criminal activities.

“It’s real and it’s happening. It’s all been transported by the sea. It’s one of the threats that we have and I think we can work smart around it together with our stakeholders. The challenge is being consistently out at sea and maintaining capability, just showing that presence and deterrence and ensuring that our sea lanes of communication are safe.”

The Commander adds that a majority of Fiji’s trade is by sea, it’s even more crucial to monitor what comes in and out of our borders.

“Most of our trade is by sea. Ninety percent of trade is by sea two-thirds of our revenue is from Blue economy. We have stakeholders. Academics that brief us on what’s happening then we put that information together and the resources that we have to harmonize our efforts.”

The Fiji Navy frequently meets with other Pacific Maritime Forces to share knowledge and information on how to keep our borders safe.