Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are taking proactive measures to address the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal neighborhoods have been adversely affected by climate change, are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-governmental organizations to help mitigate these effects.
Recently, SSViT Ba members teamed up with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a strategy to combat soil erosion. This initiative was supported by funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
At a workshop held last Tuesday at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel, women representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns regarding the erosion of their coastal areas due to climate change. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from Nacula District, highlighted the alarming changes, stating that their once white sandy beaches are now diminishing.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now we are left with more limestones. We have observed rapid coastal erosion, and there are fewer coconut trees along the shore,” she stated. Vukili reaffirmed their commitment to take action to combat climate change for the sake of future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti added that coastal erosion has had a significant impact on villages like Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been collaborating with the government on technical assessments for these villages, which includes providing advice and establishing nurseries for community members, along with exploring reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a member from Viseisei Vuda, reported that their seawall had been compromised by powerful waves. “This is a significant issue for the women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense, similar to that found at Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she said.