Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively working to combat the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal areas have been negatively affected, are reaching out to both government and non-government organizations for assistance in their efforts to mitigate climate change.
Recently, SSViT Ba members collaborated with officials from the Ministry of Forestry to plant lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village, aimed at reducing soil erosion. This initiative was funded by the United Nations Development Programme and Women’s Fund Fiji.
During a workshop at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns about the degradation of their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili noted that their once pristine white sandy beaches are now being eroded, leading to a landscape dominated by limestone. She highlighted the loss of coconut trees along the shore and vowed to take action to address climate change for the benefit of future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti emphasized that coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT is collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments in these areas, providing expert advice and helping establish nurseries for community members. This involves planning for reforestation and implementing sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, brought attention to the destruction of their seawall due to strong waves, stressing the urgent need for sea defenses similar to those in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach.