Farming has long been a significant part of Fijian life, playing a crucial role in supporting livelihoods and ensuring nutritional well-being. In light of changing lifestyles and climate challenges, a new farming approach, known as the Family Farm Teams (FFT), is gaining traction in Fiji. Developed by Professor Barbara Pamphilon from the University of Canberra, this initiative is part of the Gender, Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) framework within the Australian and New Zealand-funded Pacific Horticultural and Agricultural Market Access Plus (PHAMA Plus) program.
The FFT approach focuses on empowering families, particularly in a male-dominated agricultural sector, by encouraging collaborative farm management. Through community discussions known as “talanoa,” families create comprehensive farm plans tailored to their individual socio-economic goals. This strategy not only aims to improve food and nutritional security but also facilitates a transition from subsistence to semi-commercial farming practices.
For instance, Elesi Mila and Aleveo Basaga from Navunisole village underwent FFT training, which prompted them to diversify their crops and livestock. As a result, they now cultivate a range of vegetables and raise chickens and cattle, enhancing their resilience against climate impacts like cyclones. “Now we feel more secure about our future,” Mila remarked, reflecting the positive shift in their farming approach.
FFT training is not limited to crop cultivation; it incorporates financial literacy, helping families to align their farming goals with broader aspirations like education and housing. Farmers like Usitino Rasila have successfully started businesses, such as poultry manure sales, further strengthening their financial independence through agricultural innovation.
In Navunisole, participants like Asinate Mow have inspired local women’s groups to explore commercial farming, demonstrating the program’s capacity to foster economic resilience among women. Meanwhile, future generations, like Atrul Nisha, who runs Taveuni’s largest bee farm, are being encouraged to view farming as a viable and rewarding career.
The FFT initiative exemplifies how targeted training and community support can invigorate agricultural practices, fostering not only food security but also financial sustainability for families. As farming evolves to meet modern challenges, programs like FFT signify hope and a commitment to building a prosperous future for Fiji’s agricultural sector. The focus on sustainability and resilience aligns with broader global trends to redefine agriculture as an engaging and essential field for future generations.
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