The Uto ni Yalo (UNY) is set to embark on an international voyage to Tonga this Sunday, marking its first journey in nearly ten years. The vessel, along with sister ships from the region, symbolizes the resilience of the Pacific, advocating for traditional voyaging, sustainable sea transport, and ocean health.
The voyage, titled “Sautu Voyage – Moana ‘o e Melino,” serves as an Ambassador of Pacific goodwill in conjunction with the 53rd Pacific Islands Forum Leaders’ Meeting (PIFLM53). It celebrates the shared heritage and ancestral connections between Fiji and Tonga, underscoring the unity and collaboration that characterize the Blue Pacific Continent amid modern challenges. This aligns with the Forum’s theme, “Transformative Resilient Pasifiki: Build Better Now.”
Reverend James Bhagwan, Trustee of the Uto ni Yalo Trust, emphasized the importance of this voyage. He stated, “The Sautu Voyage is more than just a journey; it’s a call to action for the Pacific. As we sail to Tonga, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to protect our oceans and uphold the values that bind us together as one Blue Pacific Continent.” He also noted that the voyage represents a unique opportunity for young seafarers, many of whom are experiencing ocean voyaging for the first time. He highlighted the aim to enhance community within the voyaging society and promote collaboration between civil society and governments towards the 2050 Strategy vision.
Additionally, the voyage will celebrate Tonga’s recent acquisition of its own traditional voyaging canoe, the Hinemoana II. The historic journey has been made possible thanks to support from the Waitt Institute, Blue Prosperity Coalition, Oceans 5, Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, and Greenpeace Australia Pacific, among others.
Dr. Kathryn Mengerink, Executive Director of the Waitt Institute, a key collaborator, noted the significance of the partnership, stating, “Supporting the Sautu Voyage is part of our commitment to the Pacific’s future. It is an honor to work with the Uto Ni Yalo team, Pacific Leaders, and local partners to advance the vision of protecting 30% of the Pacific Ocean by 2030, ensuring its health for the prosperity of the communities that depend on it and for future generations.”