The crew of Fiji’s traditional ocean-going canoe, the Uto Ni Yalo, offered prayers in Honiara after completing a 15-day journey from Suva with a multinational team. During their voyage, the Uto Ni Yalo stopped at Lata Island to team up with the Solomon Islands’ canoe, Tepuke, for the final segment leading to the Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting, which is set to commence shortly.
Reverend James Bhagwan, representing both the Uto Ni Yalo Trust and the Pacific Conference of Churches, greeted the crew at the Royal Solomon Islands Yacht Club. After a period of rest, the crews of both canoes participated in a thanksgiving service, setting the tone for their upcoming advocacy at the forum.
Their mission is focused on promoting the need for sustainable ocean management and responsible marine resource utilization. Their key advocacy points include urging leaders to ratify and implement the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Treaty and emphasizing the role of healthy oceans in maintaining a healthy climate. They call for a transition toward fossil fuel-free energy solutions and the establishment of 100% ocean management frameworks with at least 30% of the Pacific waters designated as Marine Protected Areas.
This journey underscores the significant role of traditional pacific voyaging in addressing modern environmental challenges. These initiatives are deeply rooted in ancestral navigational practices combined with contemporary environmental advocacy, which reinforce the importance of unity, sustainability, and resilience across the Pacific region.
This trip continues a pattern of advocacy voyages to the Pacific Islands Forum, a tradition where Pacific sailors regularly highlight issues of environmental protection and sustainable development. Past expeditions have drawn attention to the necessity of renewable energy and sustainable sea transport, while also providing a platform for intergenerational knowledge sharing and promoting the inclusion of women in voyaging roles.
The voyage of the Uto Ni Yalo alongside Tepuke serves as a testimony to the region’s commitment to protecting its maritime heritage and advocating for a sustainable future. Through such initiatives, Pacific voyagers continue to emphasize their dedication to safeguarding their oceanic territories for the benefit of all Pacific communities.
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