Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to reduce the impacts of climate change in their province. These women, whose lands and coastal regions have been significantly affected, are reaching out for assistance from government and non-governmental organizations to help address climate issues.
Recently, SSViT members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to combat soil erosion. This initiative was made possible through 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 over the coastal areas impacted by climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that their once pristine white sandy beaches are now rapidly eroding, leading to an increase in limestone exposure.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches; now we see more limestone. This is one of the changes we have noticed, along with a marked decline in coconut trees along the shoreline,” she mentioned. “We are committed to taking action to mitigate the impacts of climate change for the benefit of future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti highlighted that coastal erosion has seriously impacted villages like Marou and Kese. She indicated that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to perform technical assessments for these communities, which includes providing expert advice, establishing nurseries for SSViT members, and exploring options for reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, reported that strong waves have destroyed their seawall. She noted, “This is a major concern for women in Vuda, and we are seeking some form of sea defense similar to those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach.”