Fragmented and incomplete ocean data is driving Fiji to strengthen its national data systems through the workshop on Strengthening Fiji’s National Data System.
The initiative aims to improve how Fiji collects, manages, and integrates data related to its ocean resources, to support evidence-based decisions for sustainable development and ocean governance.
Opening the Parallel Ocean Accounts workshop and Plastic Waste workshop, both held under the national data systems initiative, permanent secretary for Climate Change and Environment, Dr Sivendra Michael, said the work was critical for a country whose economy and identity are deeply tied to the ocean.
“Our prosperity and cultural identity are inseparable from the ocean,” Dr Michael said.
“As a large ocean state, our fisheries, tourism, maritime transport, and coastal ecosystems are the lifeblood of our economy.”
He said Fiji needed robust, integrated, and accessible data systems to make informed policy and investment decisions.
“The Ocean Accounts really capture the full value of our ocean, not just in monetary terms, but also in ecological and social contributions.
“They reveal how our economy depends on marine ecosystems and how human activity impacts them.”
Dr Michael added that by integrating data across key sectors, such as fisheries, tourism, transport, waste, and conservation, Fiji can build a stronger foundation for sustainable ocean governance.
He emphasised the importance of aligning ocean data systems with national priorities and ensuring that the use of data is embedded across government institutions.
“Let us work together to ensure that the decisions we make are informed by data, guided by science, and driven by evidence so that future generations inherit not only a prosperous Fiji, but one where we have done our part.”
The workshop brings together representatives from government agencies, academia, civil society, and the private sector, in collaboration with the Fiji Bureau of Statistics, the University of New South Wales (UNSW), and the Global Ocean Accounts Partnership.
