Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to address the impacts of climate change in their province. The women whose lands and coastal regions have been affected by climate change are seeking assistance from government and non-government organizations to mitigate these effects.
Recently, SSViT Ba members, alongside officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to prevent soil erosion. This initiative was funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop held last Tuesday at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed concerns about the damage to their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili highlighted that the region’s white sandy beaches were slowly eroding.
“Previously, there were pristine white sandy beaches, but now we are seeing more limestone. Rapid coastal erosion has occurred, and there are fewer coconut trees along the shore,” she stated. “We are committed to doing whatever it takes 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 conduct technical assessments in these villages, providing expert advice and assistance in establishing nurseries for community members, as well as considering reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira from Viseisei Vuda raised concerns about the destruction of their seawall caused by strong waves. “This is a major issue for women in Vuda, and we are calling for some form of sea defense similar to what has been implemented in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she said.