Fiji’s Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy says protecting coastal communities and building resilience to coastal erosion and damaging storms are among the Government’s priorities to address disparity among rural and urban communities.
He said the protection of these was equally important for present and future generations because it provided a home for thousands of Fijians.
Officiating at the ground-breaking ceremony for the Nabukadra Seawall project in Rakiraki last Friday, Mr Reddy said the impact of climate change was evident and protecting communities along the coastal area was essential because most Fijians resided along those areas.
He said the project would be a source of relief for the villagers in protecting their environment, and enhancing their economic benefits and building resilience.
Villager Niumaia Talei, 88, said the initiative by the ministry was a timely effort to safeguard their village.
I have been living here since I was born, and I have witnessed that this place has been sinking over the years especially after the cyclones as a result of coastal erosion, said Mr Talei.
The construction of this sea wall will bring relief to us and this will be of benefit to the young and future generation.
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