Communities in Yadua, Fiji depend on fisheries and farming for subsistence and livelihood needs. These fisheries face major threats from over-exploitation by modern methods, such as scuba diving for bech-de-mer (a major source of income). Population growth further stresses the fisheries and limits the amount of land that can be cultivated to grow crops. The community in Yadua is also deeply concerned about the effects of climate change, which include rising sea levels and irregular weather patterns.

The National Trust of Fiji Islands has undertaken an agenda in order to address concerns regarding food security, depleted fisheries, and vulnerable coastlines. This includes: establishing nurseries for newly-introduced, diverse crop varieties, which households then plant and grow in their own backyards; establishing a Marine Protected Area (MPA) that ensures the sustainable harvest of fish and the protection of fisheries from illegal poachers; and the planting of mangroves as part of a coastal reforestation program.

What makes it Bright?

• Improved food security and increased agricultural diversity as a result of the successful introduction of new crop and vegetable varieties
• Increased coastal resilience to rising sea levels and storm surges

Country: Fiji
Focal Point: Jone Niukula, National Trust of Fiji Islands