Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to address the impacts of climate change in their province. The women, whose lands and coastal regions have been adversely affected, are seeking assistance from both government and non-government organizations to help mitigate these effects.
Recently, SSViT members in Ba partnered with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village, aiming 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 at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa voiced concerns about their coastal areas, which have been severely impacted by climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that their pristine white sandy beaches are gradually eroding away.
“Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now we see more limestone. This is one of the significant changes we have observed, along with the rapid coastal erosion and the declining number of coconut trees on the beach,” she explained. “We will stand firm and do everything possible to combat climate change for the benefit of future generations.”
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti added that coastal erosion has greatly affected villages, specifically Marou and Kese. She highlighted that SSViT has been collaborating with the government for technical assessments of these villages, which includes offering technical advice, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, expressed concerns regarding their damaged seawall, which has been ravaged by strong waves. “This is a pressing issue for the women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense, similar to what is available in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she stated.