The women of Yavusania Village in Nadi are taking a proactive stance in the battle against climate change. As members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT Ba), they are implementing efforts to combat riverbank erosion by constructing protective structures.
Leilani Tora, the coordinator for SSViT Ba, announced that the initiative has begun with the placement of boulders along the riverbank to prevent further erosion. Tora explained that the reclamation of land is underway to create a robust defensive wall to safeguard the village. Last year, Yavusania lost over six meters of land to erosion, which led to the destruction of two homes and placed several others in jeopardy. The situation is deteriorating and, without timely intervention, the village risks further displacement.
The project focuses on sustainable measures to stabilize the riverbanks. Ms. Tora mentioned ongoing consultations between SSViT Ba, local communities, and various government ministries, including waterways, infrastructure, forestry, and lands. Technical assessments earlier this year identified necessary protective actions, and physical work commenced in April 2024.
Highlighting the integral role of women in climate resilience, SSViT Ba has initiated the River Erosion Adaptability Project, which encourages women’s leadership. Women in Yavusania are currently establishing nurseries for reforestation, prioritizing indigenous fruit and forest species. They have undergone training sessions to gain the skills needed for maintaining the nurseries and contributing to reforestation activities.
These women are set to lead the replanting initiatives once the riverbanks have been stabilized, ensuring the project’s long-term sustainability. Ms. Tora noted that collaboration with government ministries and traditional institutions is vital to the project’s success. This integrated approach melds technical expertise with local insight, creating more effective and culturally relevant solutions to the erosion issues facing Yavusania.
Additionally, SSViT Ba is partnering with the Ministry of Forestry to support women in establishing nurseries, with plans to sell the plants back to the ministry at a price of $3 each. This initiative not only promotes environmental sustainability but also fosters economic empowerment for the women involved.