The three-day PIFS-PINA Regional Media Workshop concluded on Sunday in Honiara with a resounding affirmation of journalists central role in shaping the future of the Blue Pacific Continent.
Over 40 journalists from across the region gathered under the theme, “Iumi Tugeda: Act Now for an Integrated Blue Pacific Continent”, engaging in three days of dialogue, training, and strategic reflection ahead of the 54th Pacific Islands Forum Leaders Meeting.
In his closing remarks, Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General H.E Baron Divavesi Waqa delivered a stirring message that underscored the media’s power and responsibility.
“You are not just observers in our Pacific story-you are part of it. You are the ones who help people understand the decisions made in the rooms like the one our leaders who will gather this week.
“You are the ones who help us see the human face of the climate change, of development, and of regional unity. You are the ones who hold as accountable, and remind us of our shared values and vision.”
Waqa acknowledged the challenges pacific journalist faces, from limited resources to the pressure of digital transformation, but emphasized that their work is indispensable.
“Storytelling brings our lives to realities to life in the ways policy documents alone cannot. You give voices to our communities, our cultures, our concerns and in doing so, you help shape the very fabric of our regional identity.”
He also announced the Forum’s commitment to institutionalising the workshop as an annual event, reinforcing the partnership between media and regional institutions.
“This is not a one-off. We will continue to convene this workshop every year, because we believe in the power of your work. We believe that together, we can build a stronger, more integrated Blue Pacific Continent.”
The workshop’s conclusion marks a pivotal moment not just for journalists who attended but for a broader regional movement towards transparency, unity, and inclusive development.
“As media delegation prepares to cover the upcoming Leaders Meeting, their renewed resolve and strengthened networks to promise to amplify Pacific Perspective on the global stage.”
By ANDRIANAH DELASALET KOLE
Solomon Star, Honiara
