The Uto ni Yalo arrived in Tonga for the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting after a difficult week at sea. The crew brought a message that reflects the 2024 Pacific Islands Forum theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now,” emphasizing peace, prosperity, and resilience.
This voyage exemplified traditional voyaging, sustainable sea transport, and the health of the oceans. Margaret Tabunakawai-Vakalalabure, Chair of the Uto Ni Yalo Trustees, likened the challenges faced during the journey to broader issues regarding Pacific Regionalism, calling for unified efforts to ensure the well-being of the Pacific and its inhabitants.
The arrival of the Uto ni Yalo underscored the importance of sustainable ocean management and the protection of marine resources, coinciding with discussions on the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent among leaders.
While in Nuku’alofa, the Uto ni Yalo engaged with Pacific leaders and communities to address urgent matters. The voyage communicated that the ocean, described as an Ocean of Peace, serves as a connector for islands rather than a divider and must be treated with care.
Ian Chute from Blue Prosperity Fiji emphasized the significance of sustainable ocean management and regional collaboration. This voyage received support from various organizations, including the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific.