NatureFiji-MareqetiViti is proud to announce the official launch of our Taveuni project and the opening of the office.
The official launch of our new Taveuni National Park project funded by the Critical Ecosystems Fund (CEPF), and the opening of the project office in Somosomo, was a proud day for Waisale Mataitoga, our project officer from Taveuni.
The newly renovated office was officially opened on Saturday the 3rd of March, by the Roko Tui Cakaudrove, Ro Aca Mataitini.
The event was attended by NFMV friends and family who were present in Somosomo on the day, such as our member Helen Sykes (director of Marine Consulting). Nunia Thomas, Tuverea Tuamoto, Joanne Malotaux, Teresia Daurewa (Environment Consultants Fiji) and Pita Rokobiau (Parks, Reserves and Extension Unit – Department of Forestry) were the Suva-based attendees of the opening ceremony.
The evening event began about 4:30pm on Saturday, with the arrival of the chief guest, followed by the traditional welcome (qaloqalovi – presentation of the tabua) and the i sevusevu (presentation of the waka).
The cutting of the ribbon and cake by the chief guest and Waisale Mataitoga was then followed by presentations by Nunia Thomas and Pita Rokobiau about the project purpose and planned activities.
In his speech as the chief guest, Ro Aca spoke warmly of NFMV and the project purpose:
“With the opening of the office, Taveuni, Qamea and surrounding areas now have the opportunity to work together with MareqetiViti on the eradication of harmful species… and the protection of our marine and forest resources. Taveuni is unique and beautiful. Let us keep it that way. But it needs the commitment of everybody in the community.
We will support you all the way.
Your presence on Taveuni now is an important milestone… People in Taveuni and Qamea will now breathe a sigh of relief as they see your commitment in the protection of their resources as you are now taking proactive measures and action.” Thank you Ro Aca for the words of encouragement. We look forward to positive outcomes for our Taveuni National Park project.”
