The women of Yavusania Village in Nadi are spearheading efforts to combat climate change as part of the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei ni Yasana ko Ba (SSViT Ba). Faced with ongoing riverbank erosion, these women are actively constructing a protective structure to address the issue.
Leilani Tora, the coordinator for SSViT Ba, reported that the project commenced with the placement of boulders along the riverbank to combat erosion. “We have started reclaiming land to build a solid defense wall to safeguard the village,” Ms. Tora stated. She highlighted the urgency of the situation, mentioning that over six meters of soil were lost last year to the Nadi River, resulting in two homes being swept away and several others at risk. Without intervention, the village could face further displacement.
The initiative consists of sustainable measures for stabilizing the riverbank. Consultations have been held among SSViT Ba, local communities, and several government ministries focused on waterways, infrastructure, forestry, and lands. Following technical assessments earlier this year, physical work began in April 2024 to implement immediate protective measures.
The River Erosion Adaptability Project by SSViT Ba underscores the pivotal role women play in enhancing climate resilience. The women of Yavusania are engaged in setting up nurseries for reforestation, concentrating on native plants and trees. They have undergone training to acquire the necessary skills for sustaining these nurseries and contributing effectively to the reforestation efforts.
Once the riverbanks are stabilized, these women will continue to lead replanting initiatives, ensuring the project’s sustainability over the long term. Ms. Tora emphasized the project’s collaborative nature, which merges government expertise with local insights, creating more effective and culturally relevant solutions to Yavusania’s erosion issues.
Additionally, SSViT Ba is working alongside the Ministry of Forestry to help women establish nurseries, with plans to sell plants back to the ministry for $3 each. This initiative not only empowers women economically but also fosters environmental sustainability.