INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR WOMEN IN MARITIME CELEBRATIONS TAKE OFF
Ahead of the International Day for Women in Maritime (IDWIM), observed globally each year on May 18, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) held a pre-celebration event in Nadi today. During the official IDWIM event at Denarau Marina, the Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services of Fiji, Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, highlighted the importance of maritime safety in protecting lives, property, and the marine environment.
Minister Tuisawau emphasized that women have been instrumental in advancing safety standards, conducting vital research, and implementing innovative technologies to reduce risks and enhance the safety of maritime operations. He remarked, “Women have been at the forefront of promoting safety standards, conducting research, and implementing innovative technologies to mitigate risks and enhance the safety of maritime operations. Their leadership and vision are crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.“
Following his speech, Minister Tuisawau participated in a wreath-laying ceremony alongside the Chief Executive Officer of MSAF, Mr. Joweli Ratulevu Cawaki, Chief Executive Officer for the Port Denarau Marina, Ms Cynthia Rasch and the President for the Fiji Women in Maritime Association, Ms Jane Koi. This ceremony paid tribute to the brave efforts of women in the maritime industry who have passed away.
MSAF expressed its gratitude to its esteemed partners, including Fiji Women in Maritime, the University of the South Pacific, the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji, and the Ministry of Fisheries, for their support. The organization also acknowledged Port Denarau Marina and Mamanuca Express for their contributions to the success of the event. This celebration in Nadi was the final one in a series of three events aimed at raising the profile of the International Day for Women in Maritime and increasing awareness about the GloFouling Partnerships project.
The inaugural celebration took place at the Foreshore Grounds in Savusavu, followed by a second event at the Royal Suva Yacht Club, which featured a panel discussion. The panel included Dr. Isoa Korovulavula (USP Acting Director, Institute of Applied Science), Miriama Latianara (Legal Officer MSAF), Rifat Tanjila (SPC Gender Advisor – Women in Maritime), and Mavis Joseph (IMO Technical Cooperation Officer – SPC). They discussed issues related to women in the maritime industry and the problem of biofouling. The final celebration culminated in Nadi, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to support women in maritime and address biofouling challenges.
