The newly crowned Miss Pacific Islands, Miss Samoa Litara Ieremia-Allan, has pledged to support Miss Kiribati, Kimberly Tokanang, in raising awareness and advocating for climate change action in the Pacific region.
Miss Kiribati has been a vocal advocate for climate change, representing her country at the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from November 11-22, 2024.
Reflecting on the conference, she highlighted the commitment of developed nations to provide climate finance to assist developing countries, particularly those on the frontline of climate change, in their mitigation and adaptation efforts.
“If we make good use of this funding and ensure better access to it, I believe we will continue to build a more sustainable future,” she stated.
“Our cultures, traditions, and way of life unite us on this platform, but it is crucial that those responsible for greenhouse gas emissions take responsibility and assist us in our mitigation and adaptation efforts.”
During a gift presentation at the Honiara Hotel last Sunday, Miss Pacific Islands Ieremia-Allan reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for climate action on regional and international stages.
She expressed gratitude to Miss Kiribati for educating her about Kiribati’s culture and the concerns of its elders regarding climate change.
Miss Kiribati captivated the audience at the Friendship Hall during the crowning night last Saturday with her response to a question about environmental and climate change challenges. The question posed was:
“It is often said that lack of funding is a major obstacle hindering efforts to address the impacts of climate change in the Pacific. Do you believe that Pacific nations should demonstrate greater responsibility by reducing their reliance on external funding for climate change mitigation efforts? If so, how?”
In response, Miss Kiribati emphasized that the Pacific Islands must hold those responsible for climate change accountable.
“I believe that Pacific nations should ensure that those responsible for climate change take action and provide assistance,” she said.
“Yes, Pacific people are resilient and strong, with cultures and traditions that sustain us. However, if we are on the front lines of climate change, why should we not demand responsibility and support from those who have contributed to the crisis?”
The collaboration between Miss Pacific Islands and Miss Kiribati aims to amplify Pacific voices on climate change throughout the year, reinforcing the region’s call for climate justice and sustainable solutions.
By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE
Solomon Star, Honiara
