The Fijian Government is taking important steps to tackle the pressing issue of abandoned and derelict vessels in Suva Harbour, particularly as cyclone season approaches. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, recently addressed Parliament regarding a collaborative initiative that brings together several agencies aimed at improving surveillance, enforcement, and overall maritime safety in the region.
This effort involves the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), the Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL), the Fiji Navy, the Water Police, and the Ministry of Environment. Their joint focus is on preventing drifting vessels that threaten to cause collisions or lead to environmental pollution.
A pivotal component of this initiative is the substantial support from the Waitt Foundation, which has pledged $1 million (approximately FJ$2.29 million) to the Derelict Vessel Removal Programme. This funding will not only facilitate the removal of abandoned vessels but also strengthen maritime legislation to effectively address the problem.
Currently, there are three expressions of interest under consideration for the vessel removal contract, and evaluations are ongoing in collaboration with the involved agencies. The Terms of Reference for this project is expected to be finalized by December 1, 2025, with actual removal operations anticipated to begin shortly afterward. The entire project aims for completion by July 31, 2026.
Minister Tuisawau also indicated that a review of existing legislation is in progress, focusing on preventing future vessel abandonment, a problem that has caused navigation hazards and environmental issues in the busy harbour. Additionally, the Ministry is seeking Cabinet approval to establish a Joint Maritime Environmental Committee and to facilitate Fiji’s accession to the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention, which mandates that shipowners promptly handle hazardous wrecks.
These proactive measures are projected to significantly enhance maritime safety in Fiji, improve regulatory compliance, and bolster the country’s resilience to increasingly severe weather events. The government’s commitment to fostering a safer maritime environment holds a promising outlook for the future of Suva Harbour and its surrounding ecosystem.