The PEBACC project focuses on strengthening and protecting the role of natural ecosystem services to enhance resilience with activities in Fiji, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu.

This is a five-year project which started last year funded by the German Federal Ministry of Environment, Nature, Conservation, Building and Nuclear Safety implemented by SPREP in partnership with the Governments of Fiji, Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu.

Latu said this is a special occasion for SPREP and their members’ work with Pacific islands to enhance their natural solutions to build resilience against the impact of climate change.

"We are grateful to the Government of Fiji for their support and belief in our work by hosting our office and staff as we aim to provide quality based assistance to our island member countries, working together to help protect and conserve our unique Pacific environment and people."

Minister Kubuabola said the signing marked a new chapter in the partnership between the Fijian Government and SPREP.

Fiji based staff includes a PEBACC project manager, national project officer, communications officer, finance and administration officer.

At the same time, the Fiji component of the project is preparing to conduct ecosystem and socio-economic resilience analysis and mappings at  project sites of Macuata Province and Taveuni Island.