The Ministry of Agriculture has launched a new crop and livestock guide designed to enhance sustainable farming practices for thousands of farmers across the nation. This comprehensive resource introduces research-based techniques for both crops and livestock, offering essential information to improve productivity and support animal welfare.
Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu highlighted the guide’s importance in helping the agriculture sector adapt to pressing challenges like climate change and advancing technology. He described the guide as a “roadmap” to empower farmers with vital knowledge and practices to ensure sustainable growth in agriculture.
Kadir Khan, the Principal Agriculture Officer and Lead Editor, provided insights into the guide’s features, which include detailed yield periods and production levels for various plant varieties. By advising farmers on the best crop varieties for their specific lands, the guide equips them with the technical skills necessary to optimize their farming operations.
The initiative has made 3,700 hard copies of the guide available for distribution to rural and maritime communities, with digital versions also accessible through the Ministry’s online portal for those unable to obtain a physical copy.
This new guide is part of a larger governmental effort to support farmers, echoing themes from recent events such as the 2024 National Agriculture Show. At this event, Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka emphasized the importance of resilience, innovation, and inclusiveness in climate-smart agriculture. Additional initiatives like the Farm to Fork program aim to boost agricultural productivity and connect local farmers with the tourism industry, further promoting sustainable practices.
These collective efforts signify a hopeful move towards a robust agricultural future in Fiji, equipping farmers with the necessary resources and knowledge to effectively navigate environmental shifts and market changes, ultimately contributing to the nation’s food security.
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