Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to alleviate the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal areas have suffered due to climate change, are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-government organizations for effective mitigation strategies.
Recently, SSViT Ba members, in collaboration with officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to combat soil erosion. This initiative received funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, women representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed concerns about the adverse effects of climate change on their coastal environments. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from Nacula District, highlighted the alarming disappearance of their once pristine white sandy beaches.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches; now, we are left with more limestones. This change is alarming, and coastal erosion is happening rapidly. We are also seeing fewer coconut trees along the shore,” she noted. “We are determined to do whatever it takes to mitigate climate change for future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba, another representative from Naviti, shared that coastal erosion has significantly impacted their villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to assess the technical needs of the affected villages, including providing expert advice, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, pointed out that their seawall has been compromised by powerful waves. “This is an urgent issue for the women in Vuda. We are seeking some form of coastal defense similar to what has been implemented at Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” Ms. Vuceituba stated.