Fiji Coastal Communities Push for Seawalls as Sea Level Rise Accelerates

Residents of Mali Island in Macuata are expressing deep frustration over their prolonged struggle for government action to construct a seawall, a critical measure against rising sea levels and coastal erosion. The island, which encompasses the villages of Ligaulevu, Vesi, and Nakawaga, has been increasingly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, with seawater encroaching further inland and threatening homes and residents’ livelihoods.

Pita Baleibau, the district representative for Mali, emphasized that villagers have been raising concerns about sea level rise for over a decade, yet their calls for help have largely gone unanswered. Despite the government’s awareness of the issue and discussions held during district meetings, progress has remained sluggish. Baleibau conveyed his hope that a renewed push for action would finally yield results and lead to the construction of the necessary seawall to safeguard their homes for future generations.

Climate Change Minister Mosese Bulitavu reassured the residents that their villages are on a list of 140 communities slated for seawall construction, indicating that their plight has not gone unnoticed at the governmental level.

This situation on Mali Island echoes the urgent appeals of other coastal communities in Fiji facing similar threats from climate change. For instance, the villagers of Levuka on Lakeba Island, Daku Village on Kia Island, and Vatulele Island have all made similar requests for seawall constructions to protect their homes from encroaching seawater. These collective efforts across different islands highlight both the widespread impact of climate change and the resilience exhibited by these communities in their fight for survival.

As these communities unite to pursue protective measures like seawalls, there is a sense of hope that their voices will be heard and that necessary actions will be taken to ensure the safety and sustainability of their livelihoods. With ongoing advocacy and collaboration among residents and the government, there is optimism that tangible solutions will emerge to confront the challenges posed by climate change.