Fijian Communities Plant 80,000 Mangroves to Restore Coastlines a Decade After Cyclone Winston

A decade after the catastrophic Tropical Cyclone Winston ravaged Fiji's coastlines, a wave of resilience and restoration is sweeping across Ra Province. Five communities—Navitilevu Bay, Nanukuloa, Naiserelagi, Barotu, Matawailevu, and Navuniivi—are leading a vital effort to revive their shores by nurturing and planting over 80,000 mangrove seedlings.

“

This period taught us the important role that mangroves play in nature and our livelihood.

This ambitious undertaking, spearheaded by Conservation International Fiji under the RESTORE project and supported by the Kiwa Initiative, is more than just an environmental initiative. It's a community-driven mission to rebuild natural defenses against future storms, bolster dwindling fish stocks, and secure the livelihoods that depend on these fragile ecosystems. The goal is to restore 20 hectares of mangroves by 2027, a testament to their commitment.

Barotu Village headman Meciusela Tulewa reflects on the profound lessons learned since Winston's fury. "This period taught us the important role that mangroves play in nature and our livelihood," he shared. The cyclone's devastation, which stripped away the natural buffer protecting villages from storm surges and depleted fisheries, forced a stark realization: the mangroves, once taken for granted, are essential for survival. "We learnt that if we protect the mangroves, the mangroves will protect us."

“

We learnt that if we protect the mangroves, the mangroves will protect us.

Fisher Meri Vuda, who has harvested crabs from Barotu's mangroves for over 40 years, attests to the tangible changes. Before Winston, her catch was abundant and easily accessible. Post-cyclone, the decline in fish and crab populations, directly linked to mangrove loss, meant a struggle for sustenance and income. Now, as the replanting efforts gain momentum, there's a renewed sense of hope that these vital ecosystems will once again thrive, safeguarding both the environment and the community's future.

“

Before Winston I didn’t have to go any further into the mangroves for a decent catch. It was just there. Walking into the mangroves always guaranteed enough catch for my family’s needs – both for sustenance and an income.