Villagers of Rukurukulevu in Nadroga today shared their appreciation with Prime Minister Bainimarama after he commissioned their much awaited seawall structure.

The structure which is a $438,000 investment by the Fijian Government will provide a barrier that will protect the village from coastal erosion, flooding from waves and adverse effects of climate change. Rukurukulevu village has long been at the forefront of accelerated coastal and beach erosion which is related to rising sea levels and increase in the severity and frequency of tropical cyclones.

Prime Minister Bainimarama, while delivering his official address, said that coastal erosion threatened the community, even during normal high tides.

“Your village’s former low-block wall was constructed without proper design, and it simply didn’t offer the protection that your families needed. Over the years, it was damaged by strong waves, making the need for a proper replacement all the more apparent,” he said.

“That’s why, after hearing your plea for help, my government stepped in, knowing that Fijians in Rukurukulevu suffered due to substandard construction in the past.”

The Ministry of Waterways conducted a thorough survey and proposed the design of the 400 metres reinforced and raised concrete seawall which will protect the villagers from surging waves for many years to come.

Prime Minister Bainimarama also took the opportunity to reassure Rukurukulevu villagers of his government’s commitment to keeping Fijian families safe, communities secure and livelihoods stable.

“This seawall is just the latest evidence of a much larger vision that is unfolding before our eyes– a vision for a country that can overcome even the largest of challenges.

“I promise you this: I will continue to work, day in and day out to ensure our children and grandchildren inherit a Fiji, and a planet that we can be proud to pass on to them.”

Speaking on behalf of the villagers, Siteri Duaicuvu Toge said that they are grateful to the government of the day for the new seawall structure which will protect them from rising sea level, among other climate change issues.

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