The Fiji Crop and Livestock Council (FCLC) is set to host the Farmers Economic Summit this week, focusing on enhancing the role of farmers within the agricultural sector. Chief Executive Jiu Daunivalu expressed optimism that the number of participants will surpass last year’s attendance of 250 individuals.
The theme for this year’s event is “Empowering Farmers for Sustainable Agriculture,” which aims to guide farmers towards transitioning from mere producers to entrepreneurs and active participants in agribusiness. Key discussion topics include increasing productivity, alleviating poverty, and fostering community well-being, while also striving for food security, sustainable land use, environmental protection, and biodiversity conservation.
Building on last year’s successful Farmers’ Forum, Daunivalu reiterated FCLC’s commitment to creating an inclusive and interactive environment for all attendees, which includes farmers, industry partners, government representatives, and community members. The summit promises a variety of activities over two days, including presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition that will showcase suppliers and service providers offering agricultural tools, machinery, and inputs.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts, such as the “Empowering Farmers’ Organisations for Sustainable Agribusiness Development & Corporate Governance Training” that took place recently. Discussions at that event focused on market access and building relationships with international buyers, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and adherence to export regulations.
The Farmers Economic Summit, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday at the National Gymnasium in Suva, represents a hopeful endeavor aimed at strengthening Fiji’s agricultural sector and empowering farmers to thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape. This event will not only support local agriculture but also contribute to broader economic stability and community resilience.
Overall, the emphasis on collaboration, education, and innovation reflects a positive outlook for the future of farming in Fiji, reinforcing the notion that empowered farmers can drive sustainable growth and improvement in living standards across the nation.
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