Efforts to remove derelict vessels from Suva Harbour are moving forward, with preparations now underway to begin work on the first three of 17 identified abandoned vessels.

The Derelict Vessel Removal Project Governance Committee met last week to coordinate the next stage of the cleanup, following the completion of an operational agreement involving the Government of Fiji, Joint Maritime Environment Committee (JMEC), Fiji Ports Corporation Limited (FPCL), Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Waitt Institute and Blue Prosperity Fiji.

Permanent Secretary of the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Lesikimacuata Korovavala, said the necessary planning and groundwork had been completed to support the next phase of the project.

“This has been a long time coming, but we had to ensure the right foundation was laid for such an undertaking to stand on,” Dr Korovavala said.

He said the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund was continuing the legacy of a respected member of society while contributing to a cleaner and brighter future for Suva Harbour.

Fiji Ports Corporation Limited will oversee the operational work, including the engagement of approved contractors to clean and scuttle the vessels in line with Fiji’s legal requirements.

Under established protocols, vessels will only be scuttled after meeting strict cleaning and safety requirements, with certification jointly provided by the Department of Environment and MSAF. Final scuttling locations must also be approved by MSAF.

The removal programme will be carried out in stages, based on safety considerations and the feasibility of each operation.

The Fiji Government will provide oversight and coordination through JMEC, while the Waitt Foundation has contributed US$1 million to establish the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund. Blue Prosperity Fiji is supporting coordination among partners and linking the initiative to Fiji’s wider ocean management and Marine Spatial Planning objectives.

Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, said the project demonstrated Fiji’s commitment to safeguarding its marine environment and meeting national environmental and climate responsibilities.

Dr Michael said the abandoned vessels had for years created risks for traditional custodians, marine ecosystems, navigation and public safety, and their removal would help restore the ecological health of Suva Harbour.