launch of the 50th Fiji police Womens Anniversary

“To the women in the Fiji Police Force, you have the power and the privilege to enhance the participation of other women in the police force.

If you are already in a position of leadership, don’t forget that there are women behind you who are still fighting the battles you’ve already won to get to where you are” Words of encouragement echoed by the Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation Honorable Mereseini Vuniwaqa while officiating at the soft launch of the 50th Women Anniversary Golden Jubilee Celebrations at the Officers Mess in Suva this morning.

Members of the Command Group, women officers including retirees, representatives from the Australian Federal Police, New Zealand Police Liaison were also part of the celebration this morning.

The Hon. Minister called on the senior women officers to continue the trailblazing reputation began by the first batch of women officers in 1970.

“Mentor a young officer; take an interest in the work of diligent officers; be a role model for those junior officers.

As women leaders, you shoulder a big responsibility” Spoke highly on empowering women, the honorable Minister said that while the celebration focusses on the growth in numbers of women in the force since 1970, we must, as a nation, keep aspiring to hit a the gender-balanced police force and put more women in leadership positions within.

“Encouraging women to take up leadership roles is a key part of our national commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals and is indeed in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1325.

“When we talk about gender equality, ladies and gentlemen, it is not only about the numbers, it is about the socio-economic sense in pursuing the contribution of women in every sector of the economy.

We can only reach our full potential as a nation if we draw on all our assets and capacities – that means tapping equally on the male and female population of our economy and the unique strengths and capacities that each brings to the table" The Honorable Chief Guest also advised male officers to change the landscape for women in policing.

Fifty years ago in 1970, thirteen women became the first batch of Fijian women to join the Force as police officers however the idea was mooted as early as the 1960’s when the Colonial Government was urged to recognize the status of women. To date a total of nine-hundred and seven women are regular officers while thirty-nine are special constables including those that are on a tour of duty.

The week-long celebration will include the planting of trees with the assistance of the Ministry of Forests, community engagements and visitations as well as other programs prepared at the divisional level which coincides with the celebration.

Meanwhile, the main event will be conducted on the 17th of this month at the Nasova Police Grounds with an all-female Parade.