More than 50 Pathfinders in Kiribati celebrated World Pathfinder Day by planting 1160 mangrove pods along the coastline in Tarawa on September 20.
The Pathfinders, aged 10 to 15, were joined by young adults, church leaders and ministers, including Kiribati Mission president Pastor Taabua Rokeatau.
Staff from the Environment and Conservation Division (ECD) of Kiribati’s Ministry of Environment, Lands and Agricultural Development provided the mangrove pods and supervised the planting.
Mangroves play an important role in protecting Kiribati’s coastline from erosion and other impacts associated with climate change. According to ECD, trees help strengthen the land and reduce the loss and degradation of natural resources.
The department thanked the Adventist group for contributing to efforts to protect Kiribati’s islands and natural resources.
“Our kids enjoyed planting and are looking forward to more community service activities like this,” said Kiribati Mission youth director Leeden Aluta.
