Banaba

Photo

by David Broad

/ CC BY 3.0

Banaba is a small, elevated coral island located in the central Pacific Ocean, and it is part of the Republic of Kiribati. Known for its rich phosphate deposits, Banaba was heavily mined by colonial powers during the 20th century, leading to significant ecological damage and the displacement of many of its inhabitants. The island has a unique cultural heritage and history, but today it faces challenges such as limited natural resources, environmental degradation, and the resettlement of its population primarily to Rabi Island in Fiji.