Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to address the impacts of climate change in their province. Women from areas affected by climate change are seeking assistance from both government and non-government organizations to help mitigate its effects.
Recently, SSViT members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village to combat soil erosion. This initiative was supported by funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns regarding the effects of climate change on their coastal regions. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from Nacula District, noted that their once pristine white sandy beaches are gradually eroding.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now we see more limestone as a result of rapid coastal erosion, and there are fewer coconut trees lining the shore,” she explained. She emphasized the determination of the women to take action to combat climate change for the benefit of future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti shared that coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that the SSViT is collaborating with the government on technical assessments of these villages, which includes providing technical guidance, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring opportunities for reforestation as well as sustainable agricultural and forestry practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, expressed concern over the destruction of their seawall due to strong waves. “This is one of the pressing issues for the women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense similar to that in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” Ms. Namuaira stated.