Twenty-one members of the Mataqali Namara, the traditional landowners of the Dakuinaroba Bamboo Park in Navunibau village, Namosi province, recently received First Aid Certificates during a ceremony marking the official opening of the park. This significant milestone emphasizes the community’s vital role in both managing and preserving this environmentally important site.
The Dakuinaroba Bamboo Park embodies one of the key goals of the Ministry of Forestry, which aims to protect natural resources while promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable development strategy. The park showcases how responsible tourism can generate income while educating visitors about the importance of nature conservation.
Alitia Bainivalu, the Minister for Fisheries and Forests, officiated the event and emphasized that this initiative is designed to not only preserve the natural landscape but also to enhance the livelihoods of local communities, promote environmental stewardship, and contribute to economic development.
To ensure the safety of visitors, the park’s tour guides participated in a comprehensive two-day First Aid training program facilitated by St John Ambulance. The certificates they earned from this training are valid for three years, equipping the guides with crucial emergency response skills. This preparation is essential for addressing any medical emergencies that may arise during tours.
Bainivalu encouraged the Mataqali Namara to care for the park as if it were a precious seed, nurturing it with dedication, pride, and vision, ensuring it grows into a flourishing entity that offers prosperity and protection for future generations. The successful launch of Dakuinaroba Bamboo Park not only reflects a commitment to conservation but also highlights the potential for community empowerment through sustainable tourism.