The Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA) successfully hosted a seminar on Tuesday focusing on maritime safety and resource management in the country and the region.
The theme of the seminar was ‘E-Navigation on Our Ocean: The Contribution of the SIMA-JICA Project.’
The was seminar was aimed at enhancing maritime safety and resource management in the region.
During the seminar, SIMA and its stakeholders deliberated on the Electronic Navigation Charts (ENC) project funded by the Japan International Corporation Agency (JICA).
The Deputy Chair of the SIMA Board welcomed distinguished guests, emphasizing the importance of this initiative for Solomon Islands’ maritime sector.
In his opening remarks, the Deputy Chair expressed gratitude to key attendees, including the Honourable Minister for Infrastructure Development, Mr. Ricky Fuo’ o, and His Excellency Mr. Keiichi Higuchi, Ambassador of Japan to the Solomon Islands.
Significant partnerships from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), and various regional hydrographic offices were also acknowledged.
Highlighting the theme of the seminar, the Deputy Chair noted that E-Navigation represents more than just technological advances; it embodies a holistic approach to fostering a safer and more environmentally sustainable maritime operation.
A key milestone of the seminar was the official launch of the first Electronic Navigational Chart (ENC) for the Solomon Islands, which aims to improve maritime safety and enhance productivity for the maritime industry in local waters.
The SIMA-JICA project stands as a testament to the robust partnership between Solomon Islands and Japan, underscoring a shared commitment to advancing maritime safety and resource management.
By John Chrisma
Solomon Star, Honiara
