Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively engaged in efforts to lessen the impact of climate change in their province. Women from the region, whose lands and coastal areas have been significantly affected, are reaching out to both government and non-governmental organizations for assistance in combating climate change.
Recently, SSViT Ba members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank at Yavusania Village, a move designed 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 held at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa voiced their concerns regarding the deterioration of their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that the region’s previously pristine white sandy beaches are eroding rapidly, citing a shift from sandy shores to more limestone-dominated landscapes and a decline in coconut trees.
Vukili emphasized the determination of these women to take action against climate change for the sake of future generations. Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti highlighted the severe impact of coastal erosion on villages, particularly in Marou and Kese. She indicated that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to carry out technical assessments within the communities, which include providing technical advice, establishing nurseries, and exploring options for reforestation and sustainable agriculture.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, expressed concern over the destruction of their seawall by powerful waves and called for the implementation of sea defense measures similar to those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach.