Farmers in the remote village of Tubenasolo, situated in the highlands of Nausori, have expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for receiving essential farming tools during a recent handover. This initiative reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to empower rural communities through the Commercial Agriculture Development Program.
Tubenasolo, which is bordered by Nawaka and Navosa, presents considerable challenges due to its terrain, requiring residents to travel over an hour on foot or horseback to reach the village. The Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, emphasized the importance of utilizing land effectively, particularly for growing yaqona, a key cash crop. He encouraged the farmers to embrace this opportunity and work diligently towards their agricultural goals, stating, “You have no excuse now.”
Ratu Joeli Derenalagi Naevo, the Tui Nawaka, also addressed the villagers, highlighting the untapped potential of their land. “We are sitting on goldmines, but for years, we have been dormant,” he said, motivating the community to awaken their farming pursuits for future betterment.
Historically, farmers in Tubenasolo have engaged in small-scale yaqona cultivation. However, with the new resources and inspiration provided by the Ministry, there are plans to broaden their endeavors, not only by expanding yaqona production but also by venturing into vegetable farming. Ratu Naevo expressed appreciation for the Ministry’s continued support, anticipating that this assistance will enhance food security and create economic opportunities for the district.
This initiative is consistent with the government’s broader efforts to enhance agricultural productivity across Fiji, as demonstrated by similar support in other regions, such as the provision of farming tools to agricultural cooperatives in Serua and Namosi. These programs aim to improve food security and boost local economies, ensuring that farming communities receive the necessary resources to thrive.
The hopeful tone of this handover indicates a positive future for Tubenasolo’s farmers, who now have the tools and motivation to transform their agricultural practices and invest in their community’s potential.
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