Navigating food security challenges in Nauru

Food security in Nauru is a multifaceted issue shaped by the country’s complex economic history and environmental challenges (FAO 2019). The scarcity of fertile land, primarily due to phosphate mining, has led to a heavy reliance on imported processed foods. This reliance has intensified in recent years as efforts to grow local produce have dwindled, exacerbated by adverse climatic conditions and water supply challenges during droughts. The consumption of processed foods, which often lack nutritional value, has been linked to health issues such as diabetes. Limited access to affordable fresh produce further worsens dietary habits, making it difficult for families to afford nutritious options. This challenge is compounded by changing weather patterns and climate conditions, which are disrupting access to traditional food sources. For instance, Nauruans practice a traditional form of aquaculture by collecting ibiya (milkfish) fry from shallow reef flats and transferring them into brackish or saltwater natural ponds, where they are reared for consumption. Additionally, Nauruans traditionally engage in ‘noddy bird fishing,’ using scoop nets to catch noddy birds (Anous spp.) from the sky for food.

Both practices have been affected by climate change, as participants explained: ‘We used to grow ibiya in ponds like this, but unfortunately, most of our ponds have become damaged or dried up because of the change in weather,’ and ‘A few years ago, many people were involved in noddy bird catching. We would sit on the pillars on the top side, call for the birds, and catch them. Now, only a few people still catch noddy birds because there aren’t many around anymore. The changing ocean currents have made their food source scarce.’

Regardless of these challenges, there are stories of community resilience and successful initiatives that offer hope for addressing food insecurity in Nauru. For instance, Loni Ollson from Annetan exemplifies this resilience through her efforts to support land crab populations during droughts. ‘Due to drought and scarcity of crabs, I took the initiative to feed crabs with coconut in their dwelling place among the rocks,’ says Loni. By providing food and care for the crabs during droughts when natural food is scarce, Loni ensures their survival and reproduction, preserving this traditional food source for her family and community. Similar efforts, predominantly with regards to backyard farming, exist across Nauru. These initiatives demonstrate the community’s determination to address food insecurity and maintain traditional food sources despite environmental challenges.

National efforts are also underway to strengthen food security and promote healthy nutrition. Government policies and frameworks prioritize these concepts, integrating them into various national priority areas. A notable success story is the establishment of a national Breadfruit nursery in Menen in 2022 by the Department of Environment, Management, and Agriculture. This initiative proved timely, as the severe drought experienced from 2020 to 2023 led to the widespread death of food trees, particularly breadfruit trees. ‘The people of Anibare live off the land. Their lives depend on the food from the bush and from the reef. All plant life, as we know it, is either dead or dying. The drought is killing it all,’ and similar sentiments are lamented by participants from across Nauru. The surviving seedlings at the nursery now serve as a foundation for the reintroduction of breadfruit into Nauruan society.

Despite the challenges, Nauru is witnessing resilience and success within its communities. Initiatives like the breadfruit nursery and efforts to support traditional food sources demonstrate a path towards overcoming food insecurity. By promoting local food production, sustainable agriculture, and community-led initiatives, Nauru can reduce its reliance on imported produce and ensure a more secure and sustainable future for its people.