BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
The Solomon Islands joined the international maritime community to celebrate the International Day of the Seafarer yesterday at the Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC), SINU Ranadi Campus.
The theme for this year was ‘Carrying the World Trade, Carrying the Risk’.
The Guest of Honour, Deputy Secretary (Corporate) of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), Andrew Houlia, said the theme highlights the important role seafarers play in the global economy.
“Today, we pause to acknowledge and thank all seafarers for their invaluable contribution to our societies, economies, and communities. We honour their professionalism, dedication, and perseverance in the face of adversity.”
Solomon Islands Maritime College (SIMC) Director, Capt. Dr Teorae Kabure welcomed everyone to the annual celebration.
He explained that ships are essential to transport food, goods, people, and animals between countries, but they cannot operate without seafarers.
“But these ships cannot move, and I repeat, these ships cannot move without seafarers. There is the deck, the engine crew, and a whole lot of hands-on deck.”
“Seafarers, please note that regardless whether you are working on the dock or wharf, or working with shipping business or companies ashore, or on board naval ships, fishing vessels, or on board any other merchant or cargo vessels, I strongly believe that at times like today, you must be praised, thanked, honored, remembered, and appreciated for all what you have done tirelessly and continue to do as seafarers.”
Associate Professor Eric Katovai, Pro Vice-Chancellor Academic at Solomon Islands National University (SINU), said the theme is both timely and meaningful because it reminds people of the hard work seafarers do.
“It reminds us that behind every product we purchase, every vehicle we drive, every item in our supermarkets, every piece of machinery used in our industries, and every essential commodity arriving in our islands, seafarers are working tirelessly at sea.”
Meanwhile, Thierry Nervale, Director of the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA), said seafarers often work far from their families and under difficult conditions to keep global trade moving.
“So today it’s an opportunity to say a simple but important message. Thank you to all seafarers. We also would like to remember seafarers currently serving in areas affected by conflict and instability. Happy Day of the Seafarers to all our seafarers, cadets, and maritime students.”
Photo credit: John Houanihau
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