Rewa Delta Villages Embrace Biogas for Clean Energy and Sustainable Living
Villages in the Rewa Delta are reaping the rewards of an ambitious project aimed at promoting sustainable livelihoods, environmental conservation and community resilience.
The Restoration and Sustainable Management of Vulnerable Forests and Mangroves in the Rewa Delta initiative, funded by the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and executed in partnership with the Ministry of Forestry, Fiji, is bringing tangible benefits to six villages, Natila, Waicoka, Nasilai, Naivakacau, Narocake and Muanaira.
A highlight of the project has been the introduction of Homebiogas systems, a clean energy solution that reduces dependence on mangrove wood for fuel while improving waste management and generating organic fertilizer.
The project, which also included cooperative management training sessions, concluded with a Biogas Flame Test in Nasilai and Naivakacau villages earlier this month. The test marked the official commissioning of biogas systems that turn kitchen and pigpen waste into cooking fuel and liquid manure.
ITTO Project Officer, Elimi Kurusiga explained the multifaceted benefits of the initiative.
“The Homebiogas systems provide fuel-saving cook stoves, which reduce overdependence on manrove resources and improve household efficiency,” Mr. Kurusiga said.
He added that the organic liquid manure will be used to grow healthy seedlings in nurseries, supporting reforestation and mangrove restoration efforts. At the same time, waste is managed to prevent pollution of coastlines.
Women’s groups in each village are at the forefront of managing the biogas systems, fostering environmental stewardship and economic empowerment.
“This project not only addresses sustainability but also strengthens the role of women as key drivers of community progress,” Mr. Kurusiga said.
In addition to the biogas project, the Ministry of Trade and Small and Medium Enterprises facilitated three-day training sessions in cooperative management for participants from all six villages. The training focused on equipping villagers with the knowledge and skills to establish and sustain community-driven enterprises.
Ministry of Forestry’s Director of Forestry Production, Trade, and Training, Mr. Taniela Whippy officiated the training’s conclusion and emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to combining environmental conservation with economic development.
“These sessions have laid a foundation for resilience, unity and sustainable growth,” Mr. Whippy said.
Participants expressed enthusiasm about applying their new skills to strengthen their cooperatives and embrace innovative solutions like biogas technology.
The densely populated Rewa Delta, which lies within the Provinces of Rewa and Tailevu, is a region highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and deforestation. The ITTO-funded initiative aims to restore mangrove ecosystems, conserve forest resources and reduce the environmental pressures of traditional fuel use.
Naitini Ravudolo of Naivakacau Village said the Homebiogas systems are seen as a game-changer, offering cleaner energy options while addressing waste management and boosting agricultural productivity.
“The ability to produce clean energy from our own resources is transformative. This project has opened doors to new opportunities that will benefit future generations,” Mr. Ravudolo said.
The Ministry of Forestry and ITTO’s collaborative effort reflects a vision where environmental sustainability and economic growth go hand in hand. As members of the participating villages embrace these technologies and practices, they are setting an example for sustainable development across Fiji.
“The commissioning of the biogas systems is not just about reducing fuel costs. It’s about building a future where our communities can thrive in harmony with nature,” Mr. Whippy said.
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