President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere urges Fijians to prioritise the well-being of the ocean and its inhabitants.

Speaking at the World Oceans Day commemoration in Suva’s Albert Park, the Ratu Wiliame emphasised the collective responsibility to preserve and protect our ocean.

The annual event, observed on June 8, serves as a reminder of the crucial need to manage the ocean sustainably.

Under the 2023 theme of ‘Planet Ocean: Tides are Changing,’ Ratu Wiliame called upon the global community to prioritise the ocean’s welfare, recognising its immense contributions and the limited support it receives.

“Reduce your carbon footprint, conserve water, and eliminate single-use plastics from your daily lives. Educate yourselves and answer to the importance of oceans and reefs.

“Protecting our reefs is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration between governments, the private sector and citizens.”

Significance of World Ocean Day 

Peni Suveinakama, an Ocean analyst and manager at the Office of the Pacific Ocean Commissioner (OPOC), said policy and advocacy were essential parts of ocean conservation efforts in the Pacific region.

“Our focus is policy coordination. We’ve seen the ocean agenda rise globally because of the constant representation of regional ocean priority issues,” Mr Suveinakama said.

The World Oceans Day celebrations in Suva yesterday brought together representatives from different sectors of society, including government ministries, religious entities, conservation organisations, businesses, and schools.

This was made possible because of OPOC which coordinated the participation of all stakeholders despite overcast conditions in the Capital City.

“We need to manage our ocean. The ocean is the main resource base for the Pacific – we need to protect it.

“Today (yesterday) is a day to raise awareness and to try and change behaviour”.

Story by: jernese.macanawai@fijisun.com.fj