The Uto ni Yalo has made its way to Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting following a challenging week at sea. The crew brought with them a message that aligns with the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” focusing on peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This journey not only showcased traditional voyaging but also underscored the importance of sustainable maritime transport and ocean health. Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, the Chair of the Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, drew parallels between the hurdles faced during the voyage and broader challenges in Pacific Regionalism, calling for united action to ensure the well-being of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The arrival of the Uto ni Yalo also emphasized the critical need for effective ocean management and safeguarding marine resources as leaders discussed the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. While in Nuku’alofa, the Uto ni Yalo engaged with Pacific leaders and local communities to address pressing issues.
The voyage sent a clear message that the ocean serves as an Ocean of Peace, uniting rather than dividing islands, and deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji highlighted the significance of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration.
This journey was supported by various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.