The bamboo plant plays an essential role in the culture and daily life of the community. Alitia Bainivalu, the Minister for Fisheries and Forests, emphasized the importance of bamboo during the World Bamboo Day celebration held at Colo-i-Suva Forest Park on Wednesday. She described the plant as a versatile resource crucial for sustainability, environmental health, and economic development.
Bainivalu highlighted bamboo’s rapid growth, ecological benefits, and diverse applications, ranging from construction to art, underscoring its significance for the future. She pointed out that bamboo research in Fiji dates back to the late 1970s, starting with government-funded initiatives from the People’s Republic of China in Vunidawa, Naitasiri, which involved training local youth in furniture making and weaving using the native bamboo, known locally as bitu ni valagi (Bambusa vulgaris).
The advancement of bamboo not only supports achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) but also contributes to various uses, including furniture production. Bainivalu noted that Fiji’s focus on bamboo development aligns with broader sustainable initiatives. The country’s membership in the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR) fosters cooperation on projects that correspond with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in areas like poverty reduction, sustainable energy, housing, resource efficiency, climate action, and biodiversity restoration.
She further stated that the expansion of bamboo cultivation addresses climate change challenges, enhances housing opportunities, empowers rural communities, and promotes the sustainable use of natural resources.