THE first plogging initiative in Lautoka was held at Shirley Park yesterday, coinciding with the unveiling of the city’s inaugural Peace Zone plaque.
The event was organised by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) in partnership with the Lautoka City Council.
Council acting chief executive officer Taitusi Rasoki said the council was committed to strengthening its partnership with HWPL and other peace-building organisations.
He said the initiative brought together environmental stewardship, community engagement and peace-building — values central to Lautoka’s identity and aspirations.
“No single institution can achieve lasting peace alone,” Mr Rasoki said.
“It requires the collective effort of government, civil society, religious organisations, businesses and individuals.”
He said plogging was more than a community clean-up activity, demonstrating what people could achieve when they worked together towards a common goal.
“As residents, young and old, collecting litter from streets and public spaces, they were not only caring for the environment but also contributing to a shared vision of peace and community well-being.”
Mr Rasoki said he was particularly pleased that a portion of the funds raised through the initiative would go towards supporting schools.
“This means that the efforts of our community members will translate into tangible benefits for our students — whether through educational resources, extracurricular programs, or improved learning environments.”
Mr Rasoki also highlighted Lautoka City Council’s adoption of a resolution in July 2026 supporting the Declaration of Peace and Cessation of War (DPCW).
He said the move made Lautoka the first local government in Oceania to support the declaration and formally commit to the vision of becoming a City of Peace.
Lautoka City Council acting CEO Taitusi Rasoki (middle) cuts the cake with stakeholders during the Peace Zone Plogging Project at Shirley Park in Lautoka yesterday. Pictures: ELENA VUCUKULA
Youth participants at the Peace Zone Plogging Project yesterday.
Korean volunteers during the Peace Zone Plogging Project at Shirley Park yesterday.
Lautoka police women also took part in the Peace Zone Plogging Project at Shirley Park yesterday.
Participants during the Peace Zone Plogging Project at Shirley Park in Lautoka yesterday.
Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) volunteers.
Guests at the Peace Zone Plogging Project held at Shirley Park in Lautoka yesterday.
Children were also part of the event.
