In July, the CRRI engaged in the Regional Pacific Coral Reef Partners Dialogue held in Suva. It was a powerful convening of stakeholders, practitioners, leading NGOs, South Pacific academics, and technical experts based in Fiji. The dialogue centered on collaboration and alignment under the Pacific Regional Coral Reef Action Plan.
The CRRI was proudly represented by Rachel James (Global CRRI Lead), Margaret Tabunakwai Vakalalabure (WWF Fiji CRRI Focal Point), and Neelam Bhan (WCS FIJI GEF CRR Coordinator).
They presented a high-level overview of the Initiative and associated GEF CRR Project which established the Fiji National Hub for Coral Reef Conservation and is overseeing the development of the National Action Plan for Coral Reef Action to implement in Fiji’s priority reef seascapes.
"The National Hub for Coral Reef Conservation is amplifying the voices of our communities in safeguarding Fiji’s globally significant coral reefs. Through a series of national and community workshops, we have developed a shared vision and an inclusive and holistic approach to coral reef conservation. We are progressing the development of the National Action Plan for Coral Reef Conservation through the National Hub and TWG, ensuring that community perspectives are fully reflected in the actions we take. The National Hub provides a space for open dialogue updates, strengthening partnerships, and shaping national strategies, including the development of upcoming national communication strategy for coral reef conservation which will contribute to raise awareness and inspire collective action to protect our coral reefs” — Neelam Bhan, WCS Fiji GEF CRR Project Coordinator
The CRRI Lead also shared updates from the Third UN Ocean Conference where the CRRI with partners WCS and WWF launched the first-ever Global Coral Reef Commitment, with 11 countries signing on in support. This milestone was driven by strong, united Blue Pacific leadership from Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Palau and Vanuatu.
The CRRI is committed to supporting improved regional coordination and collaboration. During our Fiji partners workshop we drafted a map of CRRI components against the Pacific Regional Coral Reef Action Plan with the goal of strategically aligning our efforts with national ambitions.
'' The CRR initial strategy refresh session and mid review could not have come at an opportune time, with an ever changing environment around our donor spaces, our national priorities, dynamics in the science and the communities' vision to the future of their people - in that we as a global community and as practitioners, we have a responsibility to relook, revise, review or programs as well and adapt to the changing tides. Its very much welcome!"— Margaret Vakalalabure, WWF CRRI Fiji Focal Point
Together, we’re building momentum to protect and restore coral reefs through shared vision, strategic impact, and strengthened partnerships across the Pacific.
