Baniaba

Baniaba is an alternative spelling of Banaba, an isolated raised coral island in the western Pacific Ocean, part of the Republic of Kiribati. The island is also known as Ocean Island. Historically, Baniaba was heavily mined for phosphate, which had devastating consequences for the island's environment and the indigenous Banaban people. The phosphate deposits were primarily used as fertilizer. The mining operations, largely conducted by the British Phosphate Commissioners, led to the displacement of the Banaban population to Rabi Island in Fiji. Today, the Banabans continue to seek redress for the environmental and social injustices they suffered as a result of the phosphate mining. The name "Baniaba" is sometimes used in literature and discussions concerning the island's history, culture, and the ongoing struggles of the Banaban people.