FOR the first time in 33 years, the Wansolwara Voyage, on board the traditional Fijian double-hulled canoe Uto Ni Yalo, has set sail for Honiara, Solomon Islands.
At the official send-off, Apitonga representative and WOWS Kids co-founder, Taholo Kami, highlighted the broader mission of the voyage, describing it as the beginning of a three-year self-planned journey to advocate for urgent climate and ocean action across the Pacific.
“Why sail today is the question, and what’s the message we’re carrying,” Mr Kami said.
“The message is consistent — for a healthy climate, we need a healthy ocean, and we must decarbonise our economies toward a fossil fuel-free Pacific.”
He said the voyage serves as both a cultural and political statement, aligning traditional navigation with regional and global efforts to address climate change, protect marine biodiversity, and promote high seas conservation.
The Uto Ni Yalo, along with a second canoe, is expected to arrive in Honiara alongside Pacific leaders including Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka and Vanuatu Prime Minister Jotham Napat.
“In other words, 100 per cent renewable and a fossil fuel-free Pacific and recognising the need for a healthy ocean. There’s also the support for the commitment made globally with our world leaders on biodiversity beyond jurisdiction. But the call globally is for also protection in the high seas.”
Future legs of the voyage may include participation in pre-COP events in Sydney and additional journeys into high seas regions, positioning Pacific voyaging societies as flag bearers for ocean protection and climate leadership.
“We see our voyage as being the flagship for these actions, putting global decisions into connection with our people and traditions.”
Permanent secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael also added that the voyage marks a return not only to Honiara after more than three decades, but to the spirit of ancestral navigation that continues to inspire contemporary movements for a just and sustainable Pacific future.