Last week, as I boarded the plane to Tonga, a sea of emotions welled within me. I wasn’t just travelling as the Leader of the Opposition. I was voyaging as a proud daughter of our vast Pacific – a region that epitomises nature’s marvel and her fury.
Envision the serene lagoons of Samoa, Fiji’s colourful reefs, Micronesia’s expansive aura, and Vanuatu’s majestic isles. Our Pacific paints a tale of beauty, nourishment, and lineage. But now more than ever, it is also a siren song of urgency.
The legendary Pacific poet Epeli Hau’ofa once said we are the “Sea of Islands” rather than mere “Islands in the Sea.” This ocean isn’t just our backdrop; it’s our identity. Yet, climate change, marked by global indifference, threatens this identity.
Recent calamities, such as Tonga’s volcanic eruption and Vanuatu’s twin cyclones, remind us of our vulnerabilities. But they are also symbols of our indomitable spirit. The climate data is undeniable. As stewards of almost 20% of the planet’s expanse, the gravity of our role is palpable daily.
Yet, size isn’t a measure of strength. The Tarahoʻi Declaration states it clearly: climate change is our most ominous challenge. Despite rising sea levels and eroding coastlines, our resolve stands firm. We are the guardians at the front, striving to reclaim our narrative.
As lawmakers, we stand at the crossroads of global promises and local truths. We are responsible for transforming worldwide pledges into palpable change for our kin. Our duty spans from employing cutting-edge climate science to initiating grassroots endeavours. Our objective? A Blue Pacific, resilient and flourishing for future generations.
This regional parliamentarian conference is more than just a gathering. It’s our chance to mould conversations into deeds, establish collaborations, narrate our tales, and carve a collective trajectory. Harnessing our mutual experiences and assets; we must ensure our climate strategies are foresighted, deliberate, and enduring.
In parting, a thought that pulses in every Pacific heart: our ocean is our pride and predicament. As we embark on these discussions, let’s uphold the grandeur of our Blue Pacific and tackle the imminent climate threats.
Together, we can navigate towards a horizon where our ocean remains a beacon of unity, wealth, and tenacity.
Photo Credit: www.cinews.com