Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to address the impact of climate change in their region. Women whose land and coastal areas have suffered due to climate change are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-government organizations to help mitigate these effects.
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 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 voiced their concerns regarding their coastal areas that are being adversely affected by climate change. Nacula District representative, Adi Ateca Vukili, highlighted that their once pristine white sandy beaches are notably eroding.
“Previously, we had white sandy beaches, but now we are left with more limestones due to significant coastal erosion. The number of coconut trees along the beach has visibly decreased,” she stated. Vukili emphasized their commitment to do everything possible to mitigate the effects of climate change for future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti also noted the severe impact of coastal erosion on villages such as Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to assess the villages technically, which encompasses providing expertise, setting up nurseries for community members, exploring reforestation efforts, and implementing sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, expressed concerns about the destruction of their seawall due to strong waves. “This is a pressing issue for women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense similar to those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she remarked.