Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to reduce the impact of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal areas have been adversely affected, are seeking assistance from both government and non-government organizations to address climate issues.
Recently, members of SSViT Ba collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village, aiming to combat soil erosion. This initiative received 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 concerns regarding their coastal areas, which have suffered due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that their once white sandy beaches are progressively eroding.
She explained, “Previously, we had white sandy beaches; now we have more limestones. This is one of the changes we have discovered. We have experienced rapid coastal erosion, and there are fewer coconut trees along the beachfront.” Vukili emphasized their determination to take action to counter climate change for the sake of future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti highlighted that coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been partnering with the government on technical assessments of the affected villages. This collaboration includes providing technical advice, setting up nurseries for community members, and exploring opportunities for reforestation, as well as sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.
Additionally, Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, pointed out that their seawall had been destroyed by powerful waves. “This is a pressing concern for the women in Vuda. We are seeking some form of sea defense, similar to what exists in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” Namuaira stated.