‘Close-Knit Community Bond Crucial to Climate Resilience’
Communities with closeknit bond remain integral in the fight against the effects of climate change through climate resilient projects.
This was evident from the commissioning of the government assisted nature-based $34,000 worth seawall project at Naividamu Village in Macuata Province, yesterday.
The seawall will benefit 226 villagers from 56 households, safeguarding them from the impacts of climate change.
On Day 2 of his Northern Tour, Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, said the continuation of climate change mitigation efforts should always be prioritised.
The project
The 200-metre stretch of seawall and vetiver grass planted would act as first defense against the impeding raise of sea-level and seawater inundation during cyclones.
The seawall was constructed within 27 days by the line contractor with help from villagers.
“I thank the leaders of yesteryears for giving their contributions towards the climate change fight,” he said.
The seawall is part of the Ministry of Waterways Coastal Protection Programme.
The need for seawalls are increasing at a rapid pace with three more Villages (Lakeba, Druadrua and Visoqo) all in Namuka district, Macuata Province also earmarked.
Macuata district rep and Naividamu Village headman, Semi Qamese, was an overwhelming proud man yesterday.
Mr Qamese said the visit of Mr Rabuka was a sign of the Government’s never-ending support for Fijians directly challenged with climate change issues. He reinforced PM’s message to ensure climate change effects eradication was on track.
“Our generations are safe now and they will always recall this day as a day when climate change effect mitigation became a possibility,” he added.
Turaga Ni Yavusa, Peter Ramasima, said they felt a sense of burden lifted from their shoulders.
However, cautioned his villagers that the fight against climate change had just started and every mitigation effort should be explored for greater safety.