Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu emphasized the importance of sustainable use of land and ocean resources at the recent Ra Yaubula Day event in Nanukuloa. She highlighted that the government’s overarching strategy aims to ensure these resources are utilized sustainably.
Bainivalu stated, “Our intent is not to restrict the use of these resources, but to ensure their richness and longevity for future generations.” She also reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to implementing strategies that promote the responsible use of natural resources while working to revive endangered species in Fiji’s forests and oceans.
During her address, she noted the impacts of climate change on regions like Ra, which covers 129,149 hectares and features substantial forest and mangrove areas. To combat these issues, she mentioned that 182,158 trees have been planted across 264 hectares in Ra Province, backed by a financial investment of around $82,000 from the previous fiscal year.