The Uto ni Yalo reached Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting after a difficult week at sea.
The crew brought a message that aligns with the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” which emphasizes peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This journey underscored the importance of traditional voyaging, sustainable sea transport, and ocean health.
Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, Chair of the Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, likened the challenges of the voyage to broader issues impacting Pacific Regionalism, calling for united action to ensure the well-being of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The arrival of the Uto ni Yalo underscored the need for sustainable management of ocean resources while leaders deliberated on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent.
During its time in Nuku’alofa, the Uto ni Yalo interacted with Pacific leaders and communities to tackle pressing issues.
The message of the voyage was that the ocean, referred to as an Ocean of Peace, connects island nations and should be treated with respect rather than division.
Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji emphasized the significance of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration.
The voyage received support from multiple organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.