Ra Artisans

The district of Nakorotubu, Tikina Nakorotubu, in Ra, Western Viti Levu, contains one of the largest mangrove forests in Fiji and has access to a rich and diverse coastal reef ecosystem. These mangrove forests are incredibly significant, as they provide fisheries with breeding grounds to sustain a sizeable amount of Pacific Ocean life. We currently work with more than 150 women from seven communities in this region. Indigenous communities in this coastal zone are primarily dependent on the mangroves, reefs and other marine ecosystems for their livelihoods. Artisans traditionally weave basic ceremonial mats; however, through intermarriage, some clusters of women have been taught masi bark cloth production. We began work in this region in 2016, following a Category 5 cyclone that destroyed the majority of homes, schools and government outposts. Ra partners struggle with access to markets, and must make their earnings at village-gate—an important reason for their participation in our program.