PT Media
In a dynamic archipelago like the Solomon Islands, domestic sea transport plays a vital role in connecting communities and driving economic growth. At the forefront of this sector is Franjti Shipping, a company led by the capable and determined Joy Isihanua Ririmae.
In an interview with Pacific Tenders Magazine, Joy, the General Manager of Franjti Shipping, sheds light on her experiences as a female entrepreneur, the inception of her business, the challenges encountered, and the state of the local maritime sector. Her journey exemplifies resilience, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in a challenging industry.
Overcoming the Seas: An Introduction to Franjti Shipping:
Franjti Shipping, managed by Joy Isihanua Ririmae, operates three vessels, including two cargo vessels and a passenger vessel. Their cargo vessels serve the transportation needs of Malaita Province and the Western Province, while the passenger vessel covers the Honiara-Auki route. With an extensive daily schedule, Franjti Shipping ensures vital connectivity among different regions in the Solomon Islands. These vessels are equipped to efficiently transport a wide range of goods and commodities, supporting economic activities and trade within and beyond the islands. Through reliable and timely cargo transportation, Franjti Shipping contributes to the growth and development of local businesses and communities. Joy acknowledges the time demands imposed by the industry, but her passion and determination fuel her commitment to serving her customers.
Triumphs and Tribulations: The Journey of a Female Entrepreneur:
As a female entrepreneur in the shipping industry, Joy acknowledges that time management, especially with her responsibilities as a mother, poses a significant challenge. However, she believes that being a woman in the industry has its advantages, as it has honed her leadership skills and earned her the respect of her male counterparts. Joy encourages more women to join the maritime sector, highlighting the increasing participation of women not only in domestic shipping but also in the police maritime division.
A Maritime Legacy: The Inception of Franjti Shipping:
Franjti Shipping is a testament to the vision and determination of Joy's late father, a master seafarer. Inspired by her father's passion for the shipping industry, Joy decided to support him in his endeavors. Initially starting with a chartered vessel, their fleet grew to include MV Baruku, MV Florence, MV Ocean Joy and the luxury fast craft Auki Express. The success of Franjti Shipping can be attributed to her father's unwavering commitment and her mother's steadfast support.
Overcoming Tides: Challenges and Strategies:
Operating older vessels poses several challenges for Franjti Shipping. During the COVID-19 pandemic, procuring spare parts became unpredictable, causing potential downtime for repairs. Additionally, fluctuating fuel prices significantly impact operating costs, with customers primarily residing in rural areas where affordability is crucial. To address these challenges, Joy emphasizes close collaboration with farmers and business partners in rural regions. Open communication and meticulous maintenance practices ensure that Franjti Shipping remains reliable and cost-effective. Additionally, the company prioritizes maintenance and spare parts management to minimize downtime and maximize operational efficiency.
The Evolving Maritime Sector in the Solomon Islands:
Joy recognizes the developing nature of the Solomon Islands' maritime sector. With the establishment of the Solomon Island Maritime Authority (SIMA), a transition from administration to authority has brought about significant changes. However, enforcing regulations and implementing necessary upgrades can be financially challenging. She acknowledges the financial constraints associated with meeting these regulations and emphasizes the need for continued investment in vessel upgrades. Ririmae expresses optimism, attributing progress to the leadership of SIMA and the collective efforts to align with global maritime standards. Despite these obstacles, strong leadership within SIMA offers hope for progress.
Nurturing Resilience and Sustainability: The Pacific Maritime Transportation Alliance Conference:
The 45th Pacific Maritime Transportation Alliance Conference in Honiara focuses on maritime safety, resilience, and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on climate change. Climate change poses significant challenges to coastal regions and infrastructure, including ports in the Pacific. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing weather patterns threaten the sustainability and resilience of these critical transportation hubs. As part of its commitment and broader commitment to safeguard the future of Pacific ports, Joy applauds the Solomon Islands Ports Authority's commitment to going green by supporting the green port initiative, by investing in energy-efficient technologies such as their installation of renewable and energy-efficient lighting systems. She is confident that the conference will provide an opportunity for knowledge exchange between port experts from across the Pacific, facilitating discussions on climate change adaptation and sustainable practices.
Joy Isihanua Ririmae's story exemplifies the determination and resilience required to succeed as a female entrepreneur in the maritime industry. Through Franjti Shipping, she has overcome numerous challenges, capitalizing on her father's legacy and the inherent advantages of being a female leader. As the Solomon Islands' maritime sector continues to develop, Ririmae's insights into the industry's current state and her expectations for the future underscore the need for collaboration, investment, and sustainable practices. With Franjti Shipping's commitment to providing reliable sea transport services, Ririmae remains optimistic about the growth and evolution of the maritime sector in the Solomon Islands.
Solomon Islands 
Papua New Guinea 
