The Uto ni Yalo has arrived in Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting following a demanding week at sea. The crew carried a message that resonates with the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” which focuses on the principles of peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This journey underscored the significance of traditional voyaging, sustainable maritime transport, and the health of our oceans. Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, Chair of the Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, likened the difficulties faced during the voyage to the broader challenges of Pacific Regionalism, calling for united efforts to ensure the welfare of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The arrival of the Uto ni Yalo brought attention to the importance of sustainable ocean management and the protection 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, tackling pressing concerns.
The primary message from the voyage was that the ocean, characterized as an “Ocean of Peace,” serves to connect islands rather than separate them, and therefore, it is essential to treat it with respect. Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji emphasized the crucial role of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration.
This journey was made possible with the support of various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.