Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to reduce the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal areas have suffered due to climate change, are reaching out to both government and non-government organizations for support in their mitigation efforts.
Recently, SSViT Ba members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbanks of Yavusania Village to combat soil erosion. This initiative was funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop held at Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed concerns about their coastal areas impacted by climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili remarked on the alarming changes, noting that their once pristine white sandy beaches are now eroding and giving way to limestone. She emphasized that they have witnessed accelerated coastal erosion and a decline in coconut palms along the shore.
“We will stand and do whatever we can to mitigate this climate change for our future generations,” she stated.
Mereisi Vuceituba, also from Naviti, highlighted the severe effects of coastal erosion on villages like Marou and Kese. She indicated that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments in these communities, including providing technical expertise, setting up nurseries for SSViT members, and exploring options for reforestation and sustainable agriculture.
Iliseva Namuaira, representing Viseisei Vuda, reported that strong waves have destroyed their seawall. “This is one of the major concerns for women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense similar to what exists in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she said.