Members of the Koroisau Co-operative in Nadi celebrated the realization of their dream this week. On Monday, Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, presented the co-operative with a tractor equipped with a three-disc plough, valued at $47,100, in Naboutini Village, Sabeto.
Co-operative chairperson Sikeli Tabua expressed gratitude to the government for the timely support. “We will maximize the use of this tractor,” he stated. The co-operative manages two hectares of land dedicated to growing cassava, various vegetables, and fruit-bearing trees. Tabua emphasized their commitment to becoming the leading supplier of vegetables to local roadside markets and hotels, with an emphasis on quantity, quality, and customer satisfaction.
This assistance was provided under the Farm Mechanisation Programme, where the co-operative contributed one-third of the total cost ($15,700), while the Ministry covered the remaining amount. Mr. Tunabuna encouraged co-operative members to become agents of change, advocating for holistic self-empowerment in today’s rapidly developing society. He highlighted the transition away from solely relying on traditional ancestral knowledge for land use.
“I appreciate your patience in awaiting the government’s support in securing a tractor, and now you will no longer need to rely on others for land preparation,” he remarked.
The Koroisau Co-operative, established in January, has effectively utilized its iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB)-leased lands and plans to expand its farming business. The group consists of 26 registered members, including 14 women and 12 men, focused on achieving financial stability and establishing sustainable markets for their fresh produce in nearby resorts and hotels. They have begun supplying their products to the Nadi and Lautoka municipal markets.
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