Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to address the impacts of climate change in their region. Women whose lands and coastal areas have been adversely affected are reaching out to both government and non-government organizations for support in mitigating these challenges.
Recently, SSViT Ba members, in collaboration with officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to combat 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 their concerns regarding the deterioration of their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that their pristine white sandy beaches are slowly eroding.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now we are increasingly seeing limestone. This is one of the noticeable changes we’ve experienced, along with rapid coastal erosion and fewer coconut trees along the shore,” Vukili stated. “We are determined to do everything possible to mitigate climate change for the benefit of future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti highlighted that coastal erosion has severely impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been collaborating with the government on technical assessments of the affected villages. This partnership includes providing technical advice, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring options for reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and forestry interventions.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, shared concerns about the destruction of their seawall due to strong waves. “This is a pressing issue for the women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense similar to what has been implemented in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she stated.