The “Eradication of Red Passion Fruit” project on Mauke Island aims to address environmental concerns related to the invasive species, red passion fruit (Passiflora rubra). This initiative requires approval from both the Mauke Island Council and the Mauke Environment Authority (MEA) to ensure alignment with Island Plans.
The “Eradication of Red Passion Fruit” project is set to begin in early second quarter of 2025 and is expected to conclude in June 2026. The project is funded by the Pacific Regional Invasive Species Management Support Service (PRISMSS), with technical support provided by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP).
Approval for the “Eradication of Red Passion Fruit” project on Mauke Island has been received from the island council, and they are fully supportive of the initiative. The council have expressed their enthusiasm to collaborate and assist once the project commences. They recognize the significant environmental benefits that this project will bring to the island, particularly in addressing the invasive species and enhancing the local ecosystem.
Further, the council are committed to working closely with the Mauke Environment Authority (MEA) and other stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the project, contributing to the preservation of Mauke’s natural environment and improving the overall biodiversity on the island.
Mauke Environment Authority (MEA) Board members have also approved this initiative and are willing to help when the project begins. Their support can significantly strengthen the efforts to control the invasive red passionfruit, especially if they’re actively involved in coordinating with local communities and stakeholders.
With the support of the NES, MEA MOA, and the island council, this project has a much greater chance of success. Having multiple stakeholders, especially local governance bodies, engaged in the initiative ensures that there’s a broader sense of ownership and collaboration. The combined efforts of these groups can lead to better coordination, resource sharing, and potentially more innovative approaches to tackling the invasive red passionfruit.
The involvement of the island council is also crucial, as they can help mobilize local communities, raise awareness, and ensure that the project is well-received by the people most affected by the invasive species. Together, this united effort could foster long-term solutions that not only address the immediate environmental concerns but also help restore and preserve the cultural significance of native plants like the maire.
For the people of Mauke, this project represents more than just an environmental initiative—it’s an investment in the wellbeing of the community and the future of the island as a whole. With everyone involved, from government bodies to local residents, the success of this project could be a model for other islands facing similar challenges.
Mauke Environment Officer Raita Moetaua concludes “I am excited to be part of this initiative. I know this work has been conducted before, and it is good to see that we can continue the work that started a while ago. I also know it will be hard work, no reira e te iti tangata o Akatokamanava – kia akamaroiroi tatou I te rave I teia angaanga”
