The Department of Tree Crops, part of the Ministry of Agriculture, aims to educate the public about the various types of coconuts and their health and commercial benefits.
This message was underscored by Senior Technical Assistant Yaminiasi Rovabakola at the Agriculture Show held today in Valelevu.
Yaminiasi Bakola, a Senior Technical Officer from Tree Crops, emphasized the importance of public awareness regarding different coconut varieties. She explained that coconut crops fall into two categories: Dwarf species, known as Bu, and Tall species, primarily used for copra. The Bu variety is gaining popularity due to increasing demand from tourists, prompting encouragement for farmers to cultivate this particular type.
Bakola expressed optimism about the future of the Bu industry, anticipating growth in the coming years thanks to a rise in tourist arrivals and the health benefits associated with the Bu coconut.
Alifeo Kalokodromu, a casual worker for the Ministry of Agriculture from Taveuni, discussed the challenges faced by coconut farmers in the islands. He noted that adverse weather conditions, including floods and strong winds, pose significant challenges. Additionally, he highlighted that many people are unaware of proper coconut farming practices and often misuse the crop, disregarding its value to the i-Taukei people. Kalokodromu pointed out that while sugar and rice industries were developed later, coconuts have been an integral part of the i-Taukei community.
The Agriculture Show, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, concluded today, featuring over 80 booths dedicated to information and an additional 130 booths for displays.