𝐒𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐍 𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞

Today, April 16, 2025, marks the successful completion of the United Nations Military Observer Course (UNMOC), held at the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), Joint Task Force Command, Blackrock Camp in Nadi.

The two-week course was facilitated by the Australian Defence Force and attended by 24 participants, including members of the RFMF as well as officers from the New Zealand Defence Force, Papua New Guinea Defence Force, and His Majesty’s Armed Forces (Tonga).

The training covered a wide range of topics essential to peacekeeping operations, including conflict resolution, international law, and the principles of monitoring and reporting in complex conflict environments. Participants engaged in various practical exercises designed to prepare them for deployment as peacekeepers while reinforcing the standards expected of United Nations personnel.

The graduation ceremony was officiated by the RFMF Chief of Staff, Brigadier General (Brig-Gen) Sapenafa Motufaga. In his address, Brig-Gen Motufaga congratulated the participants on their successful completion of the course and acknowledged the valuable contribution of regional partners.

“I congratulate all of you for successfully completing this course, your commitment to enhancing your skills and knowledge is commendable. To our regional partners, your participation brought diverse perspectives and experiences that enriched our discussions and deepened our understanding of the challenges in peacekeeping operations,” Brig-Gen Motufaga said.

He also expressed his appreciation to the instructors from the Peace Operations Training Centre (POTC) for their dedication.

“A special thanks to the team of instructors from POTC. Your commitment and the valuable lessons imparted to the course members will serve as a strong foundation for their future missions,” Brig-Gen Motufaga said.

Brig-Gen Motufaga emphasized the unique role of UN Military Observers within the broader peacekeeping framework, stating that their responsibilities extend beyond observation to building confidence, trust, and fostering dialogue in conflict zones. He stated that “Blue Helmets carry with them the hopes of people yearning for stability and security.”

In closing, Brig-Gen Motufaga urged graduates to uphold the spirit of collaboration fostered during the course. He encouraged them to maintain the connections built among peers and instructors, which will be vital when they are deployed as UN peacekeepers.