Honouring Fiji’s first women soldiers, 38 years on

Thirty-eight years after they first marched into camp, the women of Recruit Course 1/88 (REC 1/88) are being remembered as pioneers whose courage reshaped the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) and expanded the role of women in national service.

Speaking at the 38th anniversary commemoration, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka paid tribute to the RFMF’s first intake of women recruits, describing them as trailblazers who transformed Fiji’s military and strengthened the nation.

“This was a transformational moment for our military and for Fiji,” Mr Rabuka said.
“You broke barriers, proved capability and set the standard for generations of women who followed.”

He recalled that on February 5, 1988, 42 women marched into camp to begin recruit training at a time when opening the ranks of the RFMF to women required courage, conviction and faith in change.

Mr Rabuka said from that cohort, 20 advanced to officer training, with several later commissioned — commissions he said he was honoured to personally present.

He said members of REC 1/88 went on to serve across administration, medicine, engineering, communications, logistics and infantry, with some rising to senior roles including company and regimental sergeant majors, operations officers and adjutants.

Many also represented Fiji on peacekeeping missions in East Timor, Lebanon, the Sinai, Iraq and the Golan Heights, enhancing the country’s international standing.

Mr Rabuka said the legacy of REC 1/88 paved the way for key milestones in the RFMF, including the commissioning of the first female officers, the appointment of women to senior command and advisory roles, and increased female participation in peacekeeping operations.

He said the commemoration also aligned with the Government’s National Development Plan, which places inclusiveness at the centre of Fiji’s development.

“REC 1/88 exemplifies what happens when barriers are broken — institutions are strengthened and the nation is uplifted,” he said.

Senior Women Officer in the RFMF, Silipa Vananalagi, said progress had been steady since 1988, but more women were still needed in the force.

She said women currently make up about 15 per cent of the RFMF, below the United Nations target.

“It hasn’t been easy, but it’s good to see the progress,” Ms Vananalagi said.

“When we started, there was no infrastructure for women. Training was tough, but we persevered. Today, we’re proud to see women recruited every year.”

As the commemoration drew to a close, Mr Rabuka said the perseverance of REC 1/88 had reshaped military culture and empowered women across Fiji.

“You are not only veterans — you are pioneers,” he said.

“The seeds you planted in 1988 have grown into a legacy that continues to inspire and strengthen Fiji.”