Children, elders, and local leaders came together in Nayavu Village, Tailevu, earlier this month to participate in a community clean-up event promoting environmental awareness and responsibility. This initiative was spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MECC), in partnership with the Tailevu Provincial Council and enthusiastic villagers, particularly the youth.
The clean-up drive focused on raising awareness about proper waste management in itaukei registered villages and fostering community accountability toward environmental protection. Under the guidance of environment officer Sakenasa Namisi, participants engaged in sorting and weighing the collected waste, which resulted in the accumulation of 22 kilograms of recyclable materials and 56 kilograms of general waste.
This event is part of a broader Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program by the Tailevu Provincial Council, which supports community-driven environmental initiatives. It also aligns with the national “Do The Right Thing” Anti-Litter Campaign, aimed at promoting civic pride and sustainability across Fiji. The Ministry of Environment lauded the participation of all age groups, especially children, as a testament to the growing concern for environmental issues at the grassroots level.
Notably, this reflects a rising trend across various communities in Fiji, where clean-up campaigns are becoming increasingly common. Similar events, like those in Davuilevu and Navua, have demonstrated that collective action not only addresses immediate litter problems but also emphasizes lifelong values among youth regarding their responsibilities to care for the environment.
Sakenasa Namisi remarked on the importance of these grassroots efforts, stating that the commitment shown by villagers is vital for building a cleaner, healthier environment. The Ministry’s gratitude to the participants highlights the belief that fostering environmental sustainability is a collective responsibility essential for the future of Fiji.
These initiatives not only tackle waste disposal challenges but also instill a culture of responsibility among younger generations, nurturing a sense of community that can lead to lasting positive change. As communities continue to rally together, there is hope for a cleaner and more sustainable future across the islands.
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