The Department of Tree Crops, part of the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to educate the public about various coconut varieties and their health and commercial benefits. This message was emphasized by Senior Technical Assistant Yaminiasi Rovabakola during an agriculture show held in Valelevu.
Yaminiasi Bakola, a Senior Technical Officer at Tree Crops, discussed the importance of awareness regarding coconut crops, which are categorized into two types: the Dwarf species, known as Bu, and the Tall species, primarily used for copra. The Bu variety is increasingly popular due to growing tourist demand, prompting officials to encourage farmers to cultivate it.
Bakola expressed optimism regarding the future of the Bu industry, anticipating growth fueled by an increase in tourists and the health advantages of this coconut variety.
Alifeo Kalokodromu, a casual worker for the Ministry of Agriculture from Taveuni, shared the challenges faced by coconut farmers in the islands. He highlighted severe weather conditions like floods and strong winds, as well as a lack of knowledge about coconut planting. Many people cut the branches without utilizing them for their intended purposes, which poses a significant issue. He stressed the cultural importance of coconut crops to the i-Taukei people, noting that while the sugar and rice industries developed later, coconut farming has been integral to their community.
The agriculture show, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, concluded today, featuring over 80 booths for information and an additional 130 for displays.