The Waitt Institute will contribute US$1 million to begin the cleanup of derelict fishing vessels from Suva Harbour in Fiji. The cleanup effort is a collaboration between the institute, the Government of Fiji, the Joint Maritime Environment Committee (JMEC), and Blue Prosperity Fiji.
Suva Harbour has become a graveyard for abandoned and sunken vessels, many of which have been left by foreign-owned and operated fishing fleets. These rusting, structurally unsound ships leak oil, fuel, and toxic substances, polluting coastal waters, threatening fisheries and navigation, and damaging important habitats which directly affect the wellbeing of nearby communities and businesses. They disrupt port operations, pose safety hazards, and deter investment in tourism and coastal development. Legal jurisdiction challenges have made enforcement difficult, leaving the responsibility of cleanup efforts to the government, philanthropy, and local communities.
The partners have named their joint fund the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund to honor a community leader, veteran seafarer and first Captain of the Uto Ni Yalo canoe who championed traditional Fijian knowledge while advocating for strengthened measures to protect marine ecosystems. He worked with local fishers, policymakers, and regional organizations to promote sustainable fishing, combat illegal practices, and safeguard coral reefs and coastal habitats. As Operations Manager for Dive Centre Fiji Limited he led a team of divers in salvaging wrecks at sea.
“This Fund is about more than removing derelict fishing vessels; it’s about protecting our future and building a sustainable ocean economy,” said Ro Filipe Tuisawau, Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport.
The fund aims to restore Suva’s harbor, enhance the surrounding waters and marine life, and safeguard the wellbeing of the communities who depend on these waters for food, income, and daily life.
“These vessels really upset me because it’s a symbol of years of exploitation of Fijian waters and Fijian resources. The citizens of Fiji deserve better; they deserve an ocean that is thriving with abundant life,” said Ted Waitt, Founder and Chairman of the Waitt Institute and Foundation, a signatory partner with the Government of Fiji for the Blue Prosperity Fiji program.
In addition to the cleanup, the newly launched Fund will work towards legal, policy, and institutional reforms.
“Removing these vessels is essential, but creating legislation to prevent future dumping is even more important,” said Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change. “We are committed to safely cleaning up the harbour, advancing policy reform, and taking action for a healthy ocean for our people.”
