On February 25, 2025, the Standing Committee on Natural Resources conducted a site visit to review the Ministry of Forestry’s Annual Report for 2022-2023. The delegation, which was led by Committee Chair Tomasi Tunabuna, included members such as Kalaveti Ravu, Sachida Nand, Isikeli Tuiwailevu, Vijay Nath, and other representatives from the Parliament Secretariat.
During their tour, the committee visited several key forestry locations, including the Seed and Nursery Unit of the Forestry Research and Development Division, the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park, and the Treatment Plant of the Forest Products Trade and Training Division. They were welcomed by Deputy Conservator of Forests – Operations, Mr. Apisai Rinamalo, and Deputy Conservator of Forests – Research and Development, Mr. Alifereti Naikatini.
Chair Tunabuna highlighted the Ministry’s vital role in managing forest resources and supporting community-driven conservation initiatives. The on-the-ground evaluations provided the committee with valuable insights that confirmed many of the achievements listed in the Annual Report.
This visit followed discussions within the Ministry regarding the challenges linked to forest reforestation, particularly the critical need to enhance sustainability practices. Previously, concerns had been voiced regarding low survival rates of trees planted as part of an ambitious initiative to plant 30 million trees across Fiji over a span of 15 years.
In response, the Ministry is implementing measures to tackle these survival challenges. These include advanced research focused on native species, collaborations with the Ministry of Agriculture for soil testing, and strategies to engage local communities more effectively in reforestation management.
These proactive actions underscore a commitment to rehabilitating degraded landscapes and promoting biodiversity, aligning with the broader environmental objectives of the government. By involving communities, these strategies not only aim to improve the survival rates of newly planted trees but also seek to strengthen public support for conservation activities.
The increased emphasis on sustainable forestry practices and community involvement signals a promising future for Fiji’s natural resources, encouraging both environmental preservation and enhanced well-being for local communities.
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