Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively striving to alleviate the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal territories have been adversely affected, are reaching out for assistance from governmental and non-governmental organizations to address climate change.
Recently, members of SSViT Ba partnered with officials from the Ministry of Forestry in planting lemon trees along the riverbanks of Yavusania Village 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, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed concerns about their coastal regions impacted by climate change. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from the Nacula District, noted the alarming rate at which their pristine white sandy beaches are disappearing.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now we see more limestone. This change has become evident with the rapid coastal erosion, leading to fewer coconut trees along the shore,” she stated. “We are determined to take action to mitigate the effects of climate change for the sake of our future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba, also from Naviti, reported that severe coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She highlighted that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments of the affected villages. This partnership includes providing technical guidance, establishing nurseries for SSViT members in the community, and exploring reforestation and sustainable agriculture initiatives.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, pointed out that the strong waves had destroyed their seawall. “This is a pressing concern for the women in Vuda, and we are seeking some form of sea defense similar to those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she stated.