Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to mitigate the impact of climate change in their region. The women, whose land and coastal areas are being affected, are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-government organizations to address climate challenges.
Last week, SSViT members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank at Yavusania Village, an initiative aimed at combating soil erosion. This effort received funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel the previous Tuesday, women representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns over the degradation of their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative, Adi Ateca Vukili, highlighted the alarming erosion of their white sandy beaches.
“Previously, we had white sandy beaches, but now we are seeing more limestone. This change has been noticeable, as coastal erosion has been occurring at a rapid pace, and there are fewer coconut trees along the beach,” she stated. “We are committed to doing everything possible to combat climate change for the sake of future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti noted that coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to assess village conditions, which includes providing technical advice, setting up nurseries for community members, and exploring options for reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and forestry interventions.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, reported that strong waves had destroyed their seawall, expressing concerns among local women. “This is a major issue for us, and we are requesting some type of sea defense, similar to what has been implemented in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she said.