Villagers of Daku on Kia Island in Macuata are urging the Government to build a seawall for their community. This request follows the continuous threat posed by climate change.
Joana Finau, spokesperson for the Daku Emergency Development Committee, highlighted that coastal erosion poses a severe risk to their livelihoods, with the potential to soon impact their homes.
Finau emphasized that a well-constructed seawall could mitigate the erosion. “Our land is being washed away by the sea. Climate change is a threat we face every day,” she said.
Her husband, Apikuku Finau, added, “The lives of the 11 households are now at stake. The seawall can assist in stopping the sea from reaching our homes.”
Joana Finau mentioned that the development committee has prioritized this project along with addressing the water crisis and constructing an evacuation center. Currently in the United States, she continues to advocate for urgent government intervention.
“Every day a bit of the coastline is washed away. We urgently want Government help,” she said. “There is a program devoted to seawall construction, and we ask if our village can be included.”
Finau also suggested that more awareness be raised by the responsible ministry to inform coastal villages about the challenges posed by climate change.