We aspire to advance activities within the Melanesian Ocean Reserve through the following four programmatic paddles:
1. VATA – Voyaging, Alliance, Trade and Autonomy
Reclaiming ancestral sea roads through sail-powered trade.
VATA revives traditional maritime exchange by re-establishing sail-powered cargo transport across Melanesia. It reconnects islands and economies while demonstrating that Indigenous-led development can be both culturally grounded and environmentally responsible.
2. MANA – Indigenous Investment Platform
Putting Indigenous leadership at the heart of ocean economies.
MANA enables Indigenous peoples to shape and share in ocean-based economies by creating meaningful pathways into investment and governance. Anchored in customary systems, it ensures development reflects local priorities and honors Indigenous knowledge and authority.
3. SOLWATA – Seascape Oversight & Local Watch
Uniting satellites and communities to protect our waters.
SOLWATA combines AI technology, satellite detection, and community intelligence to safeguard Melanesia’s archipelagic waters. From fishers and rangers to port monitors and fisheries observers, this blended system strengthens Indigenous-led marine protection.
4. RERO – Ocean Knowledge Partnership
Where Indigenous wisdom meets world-class marine science.
RERO positions the Melanesian Ocean Reserve as a global hub for marine conservation, research, and education. By weaving together Indigenous ecological knowledge with scientific innovation, it builds a living model for the future of ocean stewardship.
PHOTO: Kanabu Village, Central New Ireland, Papua New Guinea