The Ministry of Forestry plans to create a bamboo plantation to serve as a genetic pool for Fiji’s bamboo species. This initiative aims to promote sustainable bamboo management and advance research efforts.
This was highlighted by Minister for Fisheries and Forestry Alitia Bainivalu at World Bamboo Day Celebrations at Colo-i-Suva Forest Park this morning. [18.09.24]
Today's event aligns with the government's recognition of the multiplier effects of developing the Forestry sector, and forest policies and strategies are geared towards sustainable management of forest resources for the benefit of rural communities, particularly owners of land and resources.
“Government's commitment to bamboo development is also reflected in our community engagement efforts. This year, the three-day workshop held in Tonia Village, Tailevu successfully brought together 34 participants from Tonia, Nameka, Natuva and Vatukarasa.”
“Similarly, the workshop in Qilai Village, Namosi, aimed to advance traditional bamboo knowledge to a more modern understanding. We explored innovative applications of bamboo, including piloting Concrete-Based Frame Technology (CBFT) with sea sand.”
Minister Bainivalu said this initiative produced practical solutions such as pontoons, seawalls and bus shelters, demonstrating bamboo’s adaptability and potential for coastal areas.
Minister Bainivalu added the Fiji Government’s commitment to advancing bamboo’s potential was further solidified in September 2020 when Fiji became a member of the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization (INBAR).
INBAR, with its 48 member states, is a vital intergovernmental organisation dedicated to promoting environmentally sustainable development through bamboo and rattan.