Villagers of Daku on Kia Island, Macuata are urging the Government to construct a seawall to help protect them from the ongoing threat of climate change.
Daku Emergency Development Committee spokesperson Joana Finau stated that coastal erosion poses a serious risk to their livelihoods, and without intervention, their homes could be at risk. Ms. Finau emphasized that a proper seawall could mitigate this erosion.
“Our land is being eroded by the sea. Climate change is an everyday threat,” Ms. Finau explained.
Her husband, Apikuku Finau, added, “The lives of the 11 households are now at risk. A seawall could help prevent the sea from reaching our homes.”
Ms. Finau expressed that the development committee has prioritized this project along with tackling the water crisis and building an evacuation center. She is currently in the United States but remains concerned about the situation.
“Every day, parts of our coastline are being washed away. We urgently need the Government’s help,” she said. “There is a programme for seawall construction, and we ask that our village be included.”
Ms. Finau further suggested that the responsible ministry should increase awareness among coastal villages about the challenges posed by climate change.