Fiji Advances Mangrove Restoration Efforts with International Collaboration
The Ministry of Forestry in partnership with the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO), held a Steering Committee Meeting yesterday to review the progress of an ongoing mangrove restoration project. The initiative, launched in 2020, aims to rehabilitate vulnerable areas and mitigate the impacts of climate change in the Tailevu and Rewa Deltas.
Elimi Kurusiga, the Fiji ITTO Project Officer, detailed the project's efforts in six villages: Natila, Naivakacau, Narocake, Muana-i-ra, and Waicoka. Four of these villages are in Tailevu Province, while two are in Rewa Province. Since its inception, the project has focused on restoring mangrove ecosystems and introducing alternative livelihoods through activities such as prawn farming, piggery farming, and beekeeping.
"Phase 1 saw significant progress with the planting of mangroves and fruit trees to support the communities," Kurusiga explained. "We are now in Phase 2, which emphasizes maintaining these projects and providing training on the new Mangrove Guideline, developed with Conservation International and the Pacific Community (SPC)."
One notable aspect of Phase 2 is the establishment of new mangrove nurseries, managed by local women’s groups through the Job for Nature initiative. These nurseries are crucial for raising mangrove seedlings, ensuring ongoing restoration efforts.
Looking ahead, the project will also focus on creating fuel wood areas, a new activity to be developed in collaboration with SPC and other relevant government agencies. This initiative aims to identify suitable types of fuel wood that can thrive in the local ecosystem.
"The purpose of this Steering Committee Meeting is to analyze our progress in Phase 2, identify areas for improvement, and ensure alignment with international standards set by the ITTO," Kurusiga said. "We are pleased with the participation of stakeholders, including experts from SPC, Conservation International, and the University of the South Pacific (USP). Their expertise is invaluable as we plan activities for completion by August."
Jennifer Conje, ITTO Secretariat’s Director of Forest Management, expressed the organization's support for the project. "We are happy to work with the Ministry of Forestry and stakeholders because we recognize the importance of mangroves to your livelihoods and community resilience. Mangroves are vital in combating climate change and serving as breeding grounds for marine biodiversity."
The Steering Committee's discussions highlighted the project's sustainability and its critical role in enhancing the resilience of Fiji's coastal communities. The collaborative efforts underscore a shared commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development in the country.
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