The Pacific region is taking a proactive stance in addressing the challenges posed by climate change, as articulated by Trade Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica during his keynote address at the World Food Forum 2025. Speaking at the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization in Rome, he urged for solutions that empower Pacific communities rather than portray them as mere victims of climate change.
Kamikamica emphasized the importance of nurturing climate-resilient food systems, stressing that innovation in the region is deeply tied to community knowledge and cultural values. By marrying traditional practices with modern technology, Pacific nations are developing adaptive agricultural systems that can withstand the impacts of climate change. He spotlighted initiatives like the Digital Earth Pacific program, which leverages satellite data to help monitor environmental changes and supports informed decision-making for sustainable practices.
Additionally, the Minister highlighted the interconnectedness of ecosystems and the vital role of local innovations in enhancing regional resilience. He reiterated that the transformation of agrifood systems must place women, youth, and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) at the forefront, recognizing their essential contributions as the heartbeat of resilience in the Pacific.
As the world approaches COP30 in Brazil, Kamikamica called for Pacific nations to be recognized as leaders offering sustainable solutions to global challenges, particularly in climate action and food security. His commitment aligns with the sentiments of other regional leaders, including Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister Biman Prasad, who has previously emphasized the necessity of prioritizing investments resilient to climate change. Prasad’s call for urgent action highlights a growing consensus that Pacific nations must take charge of their climate narrative, pressing for justice and accountability on the global stage.
This hopeful and action-oriented message from Pacific leaders signals a collaborative future for climate resilience. The region’s innovative approaches that blend traditional wisdom with scientific advancements serve as a potential model for tackling climate challenges globally. With ongoing dialogues and preparations for international discussions, there is an optimism that collective efforts will lead to meaningful outcomes for the Pacific Islands and their vital ecosystems.
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