The Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) has launched communications materials on Giant Invasive Iguanas (GII) to create more awareness as part of a containment and preventative measure.
According to the BAF acting CEO Surend Pratap, the species were of grave concern to Fiji and in order to protect the country’s flora and fauna a collaborative approach needed to be made which promoted sustainability as well as bare positives on the bio diversity.
“Since its inception in this project our workshops and meetings have greatly assisted us in coming up with an effective strategy and work plan for eradication of unwanted pests,” he said.
“It is equally important to continue to create awareness on the ground.
“Communities and members of the public need to be aware of what is happening in their surrounding and in dealing with this and unwanted pests.
“It becomes even more important that they know what they are supposed to be doing or what they are actually encountering.”
Mr Pratap added proactive measures had always proven effective in containment and eradication of exotic pest such as GII.
“BAF as part of the GEF (Global Environment Facility) 6 project together with the continued assistance from UNDP and support from Nature Fiji as a community outreach consultant has worked on a set of awareness materials based on the giant invasive iguana.
“The intention is to elevate the knowledge in the affected communities residing in Taveuni, Qamea, Matagi Island and parts of Vanua Levu regarding these pests.”
The launching of the materials yesterday was described as a stepping stone towards disseminating the knowledge regarding the GII and encouraging Fijians to assist BAF in its eradication plan.
“These materials which have been complied nature Fiji will double the effort in reaching out to the people regarding the critical information on GII.
“And subsequently assist towards the BAF in its eradication program or plan which we have already implemented.
“The brochures videos, posters and stickers bare the facts and information pertaining to the GII and will greatly assist our target audience to become more vigilant and proactive towards eradicating from the place they call home.”
