In a special Cabinet briefing held to commemorate World Oceans Day, Tonga’s Prime Minister, Hu’akavameiliku, emphasized the significance of understanding the interconnectivity between land and ocean resources. The Prime Minister highlighted that Tonga is comprised of 99.9% ocean and just 0.1% land, underscoring the critical need to recognize the vital role the ocean plays in supporting the security and livelihoods of the people.
During the briefing, Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku advocated for a paradigm shift towards ecosystem-based policies and planning to achieve sustainable development. The event, which took place at the Fa’onelua Convention Centre, aimed to update the Prime Minister and Cabinet members on the progress of Ocean7, the government’s cross-sectoral technical coordination and planning mechanism for the ocean.
One of the focal points of the briefing was Tonga’s Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) program for 2023. The Prime Minister highlighted the development of key initiatives such as the Tonga Ocean Management Bill, National Ocean Policy, Tonga Ocean Management Plan, Blue Economy Strategy, and the MSP Implementation Plan.
Various issues were discussed during the briefing, including the impact of ocean and human-induced climate change, disaster risk reduction, the connection between ocean and water and food systems, as well as the ocean’s role in energy and the economy.
Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku commended the government and Ocean7 for their efforts in achieving Tonga’s marine conservation goals. He announced that Tonga had successfully achieved its target of 30 x 30 marine protected areas under Sustainable Development Goal 14, as well as 100% sustainable management of these areas. Furthermore, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of Tonga’s contributions to international agreements such as the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, the UNCBD post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the Treaty for the High Seas or BBNJ.
The Acting Chief Executive Officer for the Ministry of Meteorology, Energy, Information, Disaster Management, Environment, Climate Change and Communications (MEIDECC), Paula Mau, who also serves as Ocean7 Co-Chair, emphasized the need for integration, cohesion, cooperation, and effective coordination in ensuring a sustainable future for Tonga. Mau acknowledged the challenges ahead and highlighted the importance of involving all stakeholder groups in achieving Tonga’s sustainable development goals.
To mark World Oceans Day 2023, Prime Minister Hu’akavameiliku launched key national reports, including the National Biodiversity Strategic Action Plan, the National Invasive Species Strategic Action Plan, the Tonga Ocean Finance Profile, and the Waste Audit. These reports aim to provide valuable insights and guide Tonga’s efforts in ocean conservation and sustainable management.
In closing the event, Viliami Folau, the Ocean7 Co-Chair and Acting CEO for the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, expressed optimism about the future, acknowledging the challenges ahead. He cited the words of ‘Epeli Hau’ofa, stating, “Oceania is us. We are the sea, we are the ocean,” emphasizing the connection between the people of Tonga and their surrounding oceanic environment.
Folau extended his gratitude to the donors and partners supporting Tonga’s Marine Spatial Planning program, with special recognition given to the Waitt Institute and the Vavau Environment Protection Association. The attendees were invited to view exhibitions showcasing Tonga’s marine conservation efforts.
The Cabinet briefing was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Fekita ‘Utoikamanu, the Minister