PROTECTING traditional fishing areas in the district of Nacula in Yasawa has been one of the main objectives of an environmental program headed by Vinaka Fiji’s Yasawa Trust Foundation.
Vinaka Fiji general manager Elenoa Nimacere said the foundation partnered with Global Vision International to recruit volunteers for the marine conservation initiative.
“The program is called marine and environment conservation program and the idea behind it is to ensure the protection of reef systems or qoliqoli grounds within the Nacula district,” she said.
“Through the project we are also reviving the Nacula qoliqoli committee which is made up of village headmen and a representative from each hotel within the district.”
She said the program involved foreign volunteers from the Global Leadership Adventures’ volunteers organisation engaging in marine conservation activities alongside Nacula district villagers.
“This program is endorsed and supported by the current Tui Drola who encourages the protection of these traditional fishing grounds.
“Our volunteers carry out coral planting, reef surveys, mangrove planting, community mapping and waste management projects.”
