PIF Leaders reminded of climate crisis

The Pacific Island forum leaders were reminded of the devastating impacts of climate change and the urgent need for action, by the people of Solomon Islands.

The Climate crisis is a key agenda for regional leaders' meetings this week in Honiara, where they are expected to sign the climate resilience funding agreement among others, on Wednesday.

Translating for a chief in Temotu province, Nigella Salupuka told NBC News, their main message is a call to action:

In true Pacific style, the Wan Solwara voyagers journeyed for weeks on two vaakas, or traditional canoes, Uto Ni Yalo from Fiji and Te Puke from Solomon Island's Temotu province, meeting along the way before arriving together in Honiara on Monday evening, as part of the opening ceremony for the week-long Pacific Island forum leader's meetings.

Tagala Tevi this young woman was one of 15 crew members both female and male who sailed from Fiji on the Uto Ni Yalo.

Canoes are synonymous with the Pacific people - the great craftsmanship involved in canoe making and their seafaring skills were put on display.

A traditional performance was performed to welcome the Wansolwara voyagers.

Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele says the two canoes “represent the richness of the diverse Pacific culture and demonstrate the intricate connection to the ocean.”