Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are actively addressing the impacts of climate change in their region. The women, whose lands and coastal areas have been adversely affected, are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-governmental organizations to help combat these changes.
Recently, SSViT Ba members, alongside officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank at Yavusania Village as a measure to prevent soil erosion. This initiative was supported by funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel last Tuesday, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa expressed their concerns regarding the deterioration of their coastal regions due to climate change. Adi Ateca Vukili, a representative from Nacula District, noted the alarming erosion of their once white sandy beaches, which are now being replaced with limestone.
She stated, “Previously, we had beautiful white sandy beaches, but now coastal erosion has led to significant changes. The number of coconut trees along the beach has decreased.” Vukili emphasized their commitment to taking action to mitigate the effects of climate change for the sake of future generations.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti highlighted that coastal erosion has severely affected several villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She mentioned that SSViT is collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments of the affected areas. This collaboration includes providing technical advice, establishing nurseries for SSViT members, and exploring options for reforestation, as well as sustainable agriculture and forestry practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, reported that strong waves had destroyed their seawall. She expressed the urgent need for similar sea defenses as those found in Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach, underscoring the concern among women in Vuda regarding the ongoing impacts of climate change.