The Uto ni Yalo has arrived in Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting following a demanding week at sea. The crew delivered a message that highlights the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” focusing on peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This expedition showcased traditional navigation techniques, sustainable maritime transport, and the health of the oceans. Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, Chair of the Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, compared the challenges faced during the voyage to the larger issues confronting Pacific Regionalism, calling for collective action to ensure the well-being of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The arrival of the Uto ni Yalo underscored the necessity of sustainable ocean management and the protection of marine resources, coinciding with discussions among leaders about the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. While in Nuku’alofa, the Uto ni Yalo engaged with Pacific leaders and local communities on pressing issues.
The overarching message from the voyage emphasized that the ocean, which serves as an Ocean of Peace, unites rather than separates the islands and deserves respectful treatment. Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji stressed the significance of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration. The voyage received support from various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.