The launch of a first of its kind publication dedicated towards protecting Fiji’s mangrove resources demonstrates the continuous commitment by all stakeholders to preserve the maritime environment and mangroves.

This was pointed out by the Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources permanent secretary Mr Tevita Boseiwaqa when he joined officials from both the public and private sector in launching the “A field guide to the mangrove and sea-grass species of Fiji” publications in Suva.

Mr Boseiwaqa said that publication reinforces the need for a collective commitment towards maintaining Fiji’s mangroves and other marine flora. He said that the publication which also acts as a guide highlights the importance of mangroves to the communities and the pacific region.

This guide serves as an important tool for the Fijian government agencies such as the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry and the department of environment that intend to obtain mangrove and sea-grass information,” Mr Boseiwaqa said.

The Ministry of Lands will closely work with the various stakeholders in ensuring that they achieve government’s goal of achieving higher economic growth while maintaining sustainability.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature director Mr Taholo Kami said this joint approach from regional partners and local conservationist shows the growing work towards conserving mangrove ecosystems not only in Fiji but throughout the region.

The launch also featured a documentary that showed the importance of mangroves to the communities of Maramiske passage in the Solomons Islands.

The projects was joint effort of the University of the South Pacific, the Department of Environment, the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the Mangrove Ecosystem for Climate Change Adaption and Livelihood ( MESCAL) Fiji Project.