The Uto ni Yalo has arrived in Tonga ahead of the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting following a demanding week at sea.
The crew shared a message aligned with the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” emphasizing peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This journey exemplified traditional voyaging, sustainable maritime transport, and the significance of ocean health.
Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, Chair of Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, likened the difficulties faced during the voyage to larger challenges confronting Pacific Regionalism, stressing the need for united efforts to ensure the welfare of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The Uto ni Yalo’s arrival underscored the importance of sustainable ocean management and the safeguarding of marine resources, as leaders deliberated on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
While in Nuku’alofa, the Uto ni Yalo interacted with Pacific leaders and communities to tackle pressing issues.
The essential message from the voyage emphasized that the ocean, being an Ocean of Peace, serves to connect rather than separate islands and deserves respectful treatment.
Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji underscored the significance of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration.
The voyage garnered support from various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.