Minister Bainivalu Highlights Sustainable Resource Management at Ra Yaubula Day
The Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Hon. Alitia Bainivalu emphasised the Government’s commitment to sustainable resource management during the official opening of the 2024 Ra Yaubula Day at the Ra Provincial Office compound in Nanukuloa, Ra today.
The event, which brought together representatives from various government departments, ministries and non-governmental organisations, showcased the collaborative efforts to ensure the long-term preservation of Fiji’s natural resources.
In her address, Minister Bainivalu outlined Government’s broader strategy to oversee and ensure the sustainable utilisation of both land and ocean resources. She noted the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry’s dedication to implementing measures aimed at the wise use of natural resources, while also taking steps to revive endangered species in Fiji’s forests and oceans.
"Our intent is not to restrict the use of these resources, but to ensure their richness and longevity for future generations," said Minister Bainivalu
She added that we are all aware of the impacts of climate change, particularly on island nations in the Pacific and research has shown that trees are one of the most effective tools in combating climate change.
Highlighting the richness of the Ra Province, which spans 129,149 hectares with significant forest and mangrove cover, Minister Bainivalu shared the Ministry’s success under the 30 Million Trees in 15 Years Programme.
“To date, 182,158 trees have been planted over 264 hectares in Ra Province, supported by a financial investment of approximately $82,000 in the last financial year,” Minister Bainivalu said.
The Minister also discussed the success of the Jobs for Nature Programme, with $4.46 million utilized from 2021 until the last financial year. She announced that the Ministry of Forestry has been allocated $31 million for the current financial year, the largest budget in its history and of which $2.5 million will be directed towards the Reforestation of Degraded Forests Programme across Fiji.
“We encourage communities to work closely with our officers to benefit from these programmes,” Minister Bainivalu urged.
The Ministry also plans to expand eco-tourism activities through a Private Public Community Partnership, with ongoing projects in Nabalasere, Nadarivatu and Lutu Village in Naitasiri Province. These initiatives align with the Government’s broader plan to alleviate poverty and improve living standards across Fiji.
Additionally, under the REDD+ programme, the Ministry of Forestry is actively engaged in a carbon trading initiative, supported by a $7.5 million allocation from the Government in the current financial year.
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