Government agencies, development partners, and technical experts came together this morning at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva to be part of the Inception Workshop – “Strengthening the Adaptive Capacity of Coastal Communities in Fiji to Climate Change through Nature-Based Seawalls.”
The workshop aims to enhance the adaptive capacity of 14 at-risk coastal communities through the use of nature-based seawalls.
The Ministry for Environment and Climate Change says the project is being implemented in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, reflecting a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to climate action.
They say Fiji is moving towards strengthening its climate resilience.
Permanent Secretary for Environment, Dr. Sivendra Michael, emphasised that the initiative represents a shift from planning to tangible implementation.
He says this project is not just about strategy, it is about delivering real solutions on the ground for our vulnerable communities.
The initiative focuses on building nature-based seawalls, which combine environmental sustainability with infrastructure resilience to address rising sea levels and extreme weather events caused by climate change.
According to Dr. Michael, the project aligns closely with Fiji’s broader climate commitments under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC 3.0), and National Adaptation Plan.
He noted that the workshop coincides with the development of Fiji’s NDC 3.0 Costed Implementation Plan, which outlines how climate targets will be financed and executed.
He says this work forms part of Fiji’s overall climate delivery architecture, adding that the country is now entering a critical phase focused on large-scale implementation.
Dr. Michael highlighted three key priorities for the project moving forward which is ensuring strong safeguards and accountability, strengthening national institutional systems, and maintaining alignment with national climate goals.
He also stressed the importance of inclusive development, noting that climate interventions must deliver equitable benefits, particularly for women, youth, and vulnerable groups.
The workshop brings together government agencies, development partners, and technical experts, all working toward a shared goal of building resilient coastal communities across Fiji.
As discussions continue, stakeholders are expected to finalize implementation plans and ensure that the project transitions effectively from planning to action.
