Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are taking active steps to address the impact of climate change in their region. Women from areas affected by climate change are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-government organizations to help combat these challenges.
Recently, SSViT Ba members, along with officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to prevent soil erosion. This initiative received funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop held at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns about the deterioration of their coastal regions due to climate change. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from Nacula District, noted that their once pristine white sandy beaches are gradually being eroded, leading to more limestone exposure instead.
Vukili stated, “Before, there were white sandy beaches; now we have more limestones. This is one of the changes we have discovered. We have experienced rapid coastal erosion. There are fewer coconut trees on the beach.” She emphasized their commitment to taking action to mitigate climate change for future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba, also from Naviti, highlighted that coastal erosion has had a severe impact on communities, particularly in the villages of Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT is collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments of the villages, which includes providing expert advice, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring reforestation and sustainable agriculture practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a women’s representative from Viseisei Vuda, expressed concerns about the destruction of their seawall due to strong waves. She added, “This is one of the issues that women in Vuda are concerned about. We are asking for some form of sea defense like those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach.”