Limited income and insufficient infrastructure have been persistent challenges for maritime islands, but the government’s Maritime Pine Project is ushering in significant changes aimed at transforming these conditions. In her recent ministerial address to Parliament, Minister for Forestry and Fisheries Alitia Bainivalu underscored the initiative’s role in uplifting livelihoods in Kadavu and Gau, effectively establishing forestry as a viable source of income and employment for remote communities.
This project exemplifies a robust collaboration among the government, local communities, known as Vanua, and the private sector. To date, it has allocated $1.53 million to landowners in Kadavu and Gau, benefiting around 1,500 individuals. These funds have been utilized for diverse purposes, including home construction, education, small business development, and village enhancements.
The government has committed a total of $16 million to the maritime pine development, supporting vital activities such as planting efforts and transport subsidies. With 26 barge voyages transporting 24,000 tonnes of pine to Lautoka, local producers now have unprecedented access to national markets.
Infrastructure upgrades are also making headway, with improved access roads in Kadavu and new storage facilities in Vunisea and Narocake benefiting over 1,400 residents. Plans are underway to build harvesting jetties in Ono, Kadavu, and Lakeba, Lau, further enhancing local capabilities and access.
Sustainability is a core principle of the program, evidenced by the replanting of 26,000 seedlings across 22 hectares. Local youth and sports clubs, such as the Kadavu Rugby Union, are actively involved in these replanting initiatives, reflecting the project’s commitment to community engagement. The rugby union is even utilizing forestry revenues to support its 2026 Skipper Cup campaign.
Opposition MP Semi Koroilavesau has publicly endorsed the initiative, noting its realization of a vision that began over 40 years ago with the initial planting of pine under the “green gold” project. He remarked that transport subsidies are finally translating long-anticipated harvests into real income for islanders, praising the project’s positive impact in regions such as Mwane, Nasinga, Moesomo, and Namalata.
Koroilavesau, who chairs the Yawe Pine Scheme, highlighted his community’s proactive measures in constructing roads and a wharf, aided by the government’s provision of two barge loads carrying 2,000 tonnes of pine, demonstrating the project’s extensive benefits.
This comprehensive initiative signifies a commitment to environmental sustainability and community growth while providing hope for a more prosperous future for Fiji’s maritime populations. As similar projects gain momentum across the nation, including increased investments in sustainable forestry and community involvement, Fiji stands poised to enhance both livelihoods and environmental health for the years to come.