Building of Resilient Communities in Ra , Fiji

As an island country in the Pacific, our greatest fear is the unfavorable climate conditions that severely impacts coastal communities.

Since OISCA pioneered the mangrove planting program in 1998, we have been engaging local communities to be more alert and proactive in the protection of shorelines and local resources. Our greatest concern is the preservation of the existing forests and reefs to be able to support the many forms of ecosystems around us, particularly the people itself for now and for the future.

The GlobalGiving donations enabled us to work with vulnerable communities through climate change adaptation programs. These initiatives helped empowered communities. We were able to reach out and involve local communities who were always been susceptible from natural disturbances, including strong winds during cyclone season. The mangroves that we helped planted serve as natural barriers and wind breakers that slow and reduce threats to coastal dwellers.

Our efforts were recognized by the government on which we believe will greatly impact the progress of our activity.

We are grateful to GlobalGiving donors for your generous support to our mangrove rehabilitation project in Nakorotubu District, Ra Province in Fiji.

In line with the national government` target of planting 2 million mangrove seedlings, we are actively engaging local villagers in the protection of the shorelines. This effort is highly recognized by the local and national government. We may face issues such as COVID-19 pandemic and disasters such as cyclones, but we are committed to continue encourage local communities to be part of the rehabilitation process.

Moreover, we mobilized our resources and provided the local communities with trainings and agricultural inputs to somehow reduce their vulnerability from disasters and of the negative impact of the pandemic. Since the pandemic, we have trained local people who were laid off from tourism related jobs. We taught them how to grow vegetables organically to address the problem of food insecurity.

Meanwhile, as a result of the gradual restoration of mangrove, there is a now a noticeable increase of fish catches both for the villagers` own consumption, as well as for commercial purposes. It helps sustain the basic needs of families living along the coastal area. As we work with the villagers for the sustainable management of their coastal forest, we are aware of how important to involve not only the elders, but also the youths. As island villagers become more vulnerable from frequent disasters, collective responsibilities are in need.