JEREMY INIFIRI | Solomon Star
THE CLIMATE CHALLENGER expedition super canoe was scheduled to arrive in Honiara today.
The traditional-style open canoe set off from Manus Province in late August with 10 people on board, and landed in Choiseul in the Solomons last week.
In Choiseul the group conducted environmental awareness programs in Nukiki, Wagina and Arnavon before setting sail to Kia and onwards to Buala in Isabel Province.
An important purpose of the voyage is to raise awareness on climate change and inspire people on community-based adaptation action including conservation and protection of marine resources.
With the theme ‘Bridging gaps between the Pacific-connecting countries’, the voyage was an initiative of the people of Manus inspired by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in PNG and funded by the Australian government.
Speaking about the voyage, TNC Solomon Islands director, Willie Atu, confirmed the team’s arrival, adding that his office is prepared to welcome them to the shores of Honiara.
“We have had our officers welcomed them in the other two provinces, now that they are coming to the shores of the capital of Solomon Islands, we are indeed preparing a big welcome for them,” Mr Atu said.
He called on the general public to also welcome the sailors as they arrive on the shores of Honiara.
The Climate Challenger is expected depart during the weekend.
The voyage continues from the Solomon Islands to Nauru, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Kosrae, Ponape, Truk Islands, Puluwat, Sorol, Yap, Palau, Au Wuvulu, Ninigo and Hermit Islands before returning to Manus in PNG.
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