British Army servicemen walk 226km for veterans and drug awareness

After 18 years of military service, British Army Sergeant Filipe Buatavatava has taken on one of his biggest personal missions yet – walking 226 kilometres across Viti Levu to give back to his community while raising awareness about the dangers of drugs.

Joined by fellow servicemen, Sgt Buatavatava began the nine-day charity walk from Lautoka on Tuesday and is expected to finish in his home village of Ucunivanua, Verata, Tailevu.

Held under the theme "One Step, One Purpose, One Nation – Stronger Together," the campaign aims to support veterans while encouraging communities to take a stand against drug abuse.

It also promotes mental health awareness, community connection, housing and welfare support, and greater recognition of veterans' service.

Sgt Buatavatava, who serves with the 1st Battalion of the British Army's Coast Guards, said the walk had been a long-held dream.

"I've done 18 years of service, with six more years to go. This has always been on my to-do list. I've been telling my friends in the UK that I wanted to do a charity event in Fiji to give something back to the community," he said.

The team covered 24 kilometres on the opening day, walking from Lautoka to Wailoaloa in Nadi before continuing their journey east across Viti Levu.

Sgt Buatavatava said the initiative had two key objectives.

"The aim of this charity is twofold. Firstly, it is to support veterans on behalf of the Royal British Legion UK and the Royal British Legion Fiji.

"Whatever funds are raised will be shared between the UK and Fiji to support veterans.

"The second, and most important reason we're doing this in Fiji, is drug awareness. As we all know, drug abuse has become a major problem, especially among the younger generation."

He said the walk was intended to inspire communities and encourage young people to choose a better path.

"We're walking to represent the Fijian community and hopefully make an impact by showing our young people that drugs are harmful and that there is a better path."

Sgt Buatavatava said part of the funds raised in Fiji would also support local social welfare initiatives, with discussions to be held with the Social Welfare Department.

Joining him on the journey are Guardsman Samisoni Lavaki, Viliame Vakavere and Guardsman Timilai Navakacagi.

Members of the public wishing to support the initiative can make donations through the team's GoFundMe fundraising page.

Support here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/226-km-for-fijis-youth-walking-for-drug-awareness/cl/s?utm_campaign=fp_sharesheet&utm_content=amp20_control&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=copy_link&lang=en_GB