MUSU FACING CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS

By Ricky ISRAEL

Musu Island in the East Sepik Province is feeling the effects of climate change, with rising sea levels causing serious damage to its coastline. Local fisherman George Maiet says the island has seen increasing sand erosion, with several centimeters of sand washed away each year.

Maiet says this is something the villagers have never experienced before. In recent years, the community has faced stronger king tides, especially from January to April. These tides have flooded homes, destroyed water wells, and caused damages to the island.

Job Opu, a fisheries officer with the National Fisheries Authority, has been working with local fish farmers says that during king tide season, powerful waves have been hitting the village more often.

He says while the full impact of climate change is not fully felt yet, Opu warns that rising ocean temperatures could soon disrupt local fishing activities, and they are closely monitoring the situation.

The people of Musu Island are concerned, and many are worried about the future as climate change continues to affect their land and way of life.