At the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort, attendees of the Indo-Pacific Environmental Security Forum (IPESF 24) visited the communities of Naidiri and Malomalo to learn about their efforts in protecting marine reserves.
Dr. Sivendra Michael, the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, highlighted that fieldwork provides participants with a practical understanding of the challenges facing the Pacific region.
The IPESF addresses a variety of environmental security issues, including invasive species, wildlife crimes, and the impact of climate change on food security.
“This program contextualizes broad issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss by emphasizing the increasing incidents related to food security,” Dr. Michael stated.
He noted that the Naidiri community, recognizing a decrease in fish stocks, proactively developed a proposal and engaged with the government to address their concerns.
“The community approached the government in 2022, and we were able to assist with facilities and equipment to help establish a marine biodiversity park with governmental support,” he added.
The Permanent Secretary emphasized that the initiative taken by the villages to create the biodiversity park serves as a model for other communities to consider.
He revealed that the biodiversity park has since become a source of income for local residents, providing IPESF participants with an example to replicate in their respective countries.