Residents of Karobo Street in Makoi, Nasinu spent their Ratu Sukuna Day public holiday giving back to their community, rolling up their sleeves for a clean up campaign that highlighted the power of grassroots action in protecting Fiji’s environment and keeping Fiji clean.
Leading the initiative was President of the Nasinu Women’s Forum, Jokapeci Peau Macanawai, who joined residents and the Nasinu Police Mobile Community Policing Unit in transforming their neighbourhood into a cleaner and healthier space.
Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Hon. Lynda Tabuya praised the residents and community leaders who chose service over leisure on a public holiday.
“Today we shine a light on our Green Champs, ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things for their community. While many enjoyed the holiday, the people of Karobo Street chose to honour the legacy of Ratu Sukuna through service, leadership and environmental stewardship.”
Hon. Tabuya said community driven initiatives such as this demonstrate that environmental protection is everyone’s responsibility and that lasting change begins at the local level.
She commended Ms. Macanawai and the Nasinu Women’s Forum for mobilising residents and creating opportunities for women and families to lead positive change in their communities.
The Minister also acknowledged the valuable partnership with the Ministry of Local Government, Return and Earn Fiji, and the Nasinu Police Mobile Community Policing Team, whose support strengthened the community effort.
“Every bottle collected, every drain cleared and every bag of rubbish removed is a step towards a cleaner Fiji. These actions may seem small, but together they make a powerful difference.”
The clean up concluded with dozens of bags of waste removed from the area and recyclable containers collected for processing through the Return and Earn programme, turning litter into an opportunity for environmental and economic benefit.
The Ministry encourages communities across Fiji to follow the example set by the residents of Karobo Street and continue working together to build cleaner, safer and more resilient neighbourhoods.
Communities undertaking similar environmental projects are encouraged to share their stories with the Ministry for an opportunity to be highlighted and inspire others across the country.