The World Maritime Day (WMD) celebration was held on September 26 at the Pacific Centre for Maritime Studies in Laucala Bay, Suva, with Naisa Tuinaceva, the Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, leading the event. She underscored the significance of maritime transport, which is responsible for about 80 percent of global trade. Tuinaceva highlighted Fiji’s crucial role in the maritime sector, noting that the nation’s eight international ports service thousands of foreign vessels each year, reinforcing its importance in global maritime activities.
This year’s theme, “Our ocean, our obligation, our opportunity,” focused on the responsibility that comes with managing ocean resources as well as the potential opportunities for development within the sector. The event attracted participants from various areas of the maritime industry, emphasizing the diversity and importance of maritime professions in Fiji.
The recognition of the maritime sector’s contributions to both local and international communities is growing. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, reiterated the increasing demand for skilled workers in this field. He encouraged students and young professionals to explore career opportunities in the maritime industry, particularly in light of the ongoing challenge of skilled emigration, which sees talented individuals leaving Fiji for international prospects.
World Maritime Day not only celebrates maritime achievements but also serves as a vital platform for discussing the future of maritime safety and sustainability. By focusing on the essential role of the maritime industry in global commerce, the event inspires hope for ongoing development and a commitment to implementing safer and more innovative maritime practices.
Fiji’s participation in this celebration reflects the larger global dialogue surrounding maritime innovation and the critical role of the shipping sector in fostering international trade while protecting marine environments. Such initiatives highlight the commitment to creating a sustainable maritime future and recognizing the significant contributions of professionals within this essential industry.