Only a select set of crops is suited to the shallow soils of Tuvalu, a low-lying atoll barely above the sea. One people here have long relied on is pulaka, a root crop often grown in self-contained pits which provides a resilient source of food.

Vaitupu, looking to both increase food security and bolster itself from the impacts of sea level rise, is working on making raised pulaka pits. Reaching Vaitupu is a considerable journey from Funafuti for the Live & Learn Tuvalu staff – but the community has been enthusiastic in taking part in this work.

Consultation meetings have been held with landowners, chiefs, Kaupule, community representatives and even local high school students who are studying agriculture. Early awareness meetings saw more than 60 people attend, many of whom have later helped with the difficult work of weeding, site clearing, excavating, shredding for compost materials and more.

They have also been provided with trainings to help them contribute to this work and carry it on beyond the formal completion of the pathway. These trainings so far have focused on how to construct the raised pulaka pits and how to mix a rich compost for pulaka and other crops like taro. Vegetation from the cleared site has so far helped provide much of the materials needed for the compost.

Tuvalu CRI Coordinator Itaia says the community will see the rewards of their efforts.

‘The raise pulaka pit project in Vaitupu will significantly boost food production for the community, providing a more reliable and sustainable source of crops,’ he said.  ‘By improving the soil quality and water retention, the project ensures better yields of pulaka. The increased availability of food will contribute to a better food security and community resilience.’

Itaia also said he believes the community will continue to scale this work beyond the assistance of Live & Learn.

‘The community has gained valuable hands-on experience in this innovative farming technique,’ he said. ‘This knowledge will empower them to replicate the method and adapt it to other pulaka pits that have been affected by climate change and soil degradation.

‘As they apply this technique to other areas, they will improve food production and enhance the sustainability of their farming practices. Ultimately, this approach will help Vaitupu build resilience to environmental challenges and ensure a stable food supply for the future.’

One such community member is Manu Peniamina, a member of a local farming non-profit organisation who was hired as a field support worker. The cooperation of local farmers is key to scaling the pulaka pits and increasing their productivity in the future – and thankfully Manu is well aware of their value.

‘Pulaka and taro play a significant role in our island’s tradition and customs,’ he said. ‘Therefore, reviving these pulaka pits is crucial.’