Members of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT) are taking proactive steps to address the impacts of climate change in their region. Women whose lands and coastal areas have been adversely affected are reaching out for assistance from both government and non-government organizations to combat climate change.
Recently, SSViT members, along with officials from the Ministry of Forestry, planted lemon trees along the riverbank in Yavusania Village as a measure to curb soil erosion. This initiative received funding from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Women’s Fund Fiji (WFF).
During a workshop last Tuesday at the Tanoa Skylodge Hotel, representatives from Naviti Island in Yasawa voiced their concerns regarding the deterioration of their coastal areas due to climate change. Nacula District representative Adi Ateca Vukili highlighted the alarming rate at which their white sandy beaches are eroding, stating that they now see more limestone where beaches once were, along with a decline in coconut trees along the shore.
“We will stand and do whatever we can to mitigate this climate change for our future generations,” she asserted.
Mereisi Vuceituba from Naviti noted that coastal erosion has significantly impacted villages, particularly Marou and Kese. She explained that SSViT has been collaborating with the government to conduct technical assessments of these villages. Efforts include technical support, establishing nurseries for community members, and exploring reforestation and sustainable agricultural practices.
Iliseva Namuaira, a representative from Viseisei Vuda, reported that the seawall protecting their area was destroyed by strong waves. “This is one of the primary concerns for women in Vuda. We are requesting some form of sea defense similar to those at Wailoaloa and Newtown Beach,” she stated.