The FIJI Water Foundation, one of the largest philanthropic organizations in Fiji, has announced the launch of its “Women in Agriculture Initiative” pilot project. This program, in collaboration with women’s groups from six neighboring villages in the Yaqara Valley in Ra, aims to utilize unused land and empower local women through sustainable farming practices.
The first phase of the project kicked off with the women’s group at Drauniivi Village. Uraia Waibuta, Head of the Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute, emphasized the initiative’s goal of enhancing the agricultural skills of women in the Yaqara Valley. This knowledge will enable them to make healthier choices for their families.
FIJI Water Foundation Director, Semi Lotawa, shared their vision of creating a sustainable, women-led agricultural supply chain that provides consistent, quality fresh produce throughout the year. This project is expected to improve the health and economic stability of women in the region, ensuring future generations have access to nutritious produce. It includes training in agricultural best practices such as crop rotation, climate-smart techniques like drip irrigation, and understanding the seasonal calendar.
The six villages participating in this initiative are Drauniivi, Naseyani, Nananu, Togovere, Narauyaba, and Rabulu. Each village’s women’s group will manage one-acre farm plots, cultivating a variety of short to long-term crops. The produce will be sold and delivered in vegetable packs every two weeks to over 300 FIJI Water employees at the Yaqara Plant. This community-driven program aims to transform the economic landscape for women, with the ultimate goal of them running successful semi-commercial farms and boosting Fiji’s food security.
Waibuta, who is also chairman of the Yaqara Pastoral Company, highlighted the initiative as a remarkable training and mentorship opportunity for women, promising significant positive impacts on their communities. He expressed honor in collaborating with the FIJI Water Foundation in their philanthropy and community development efforts.
The FIJI Water Foundation, part of The Wonderful Company owned by philanthropists Lynda and Stewart Resnick, has committed more than USD $2.5 billion to various global philanthropic and corporate social responsibility efforts. Since its inception in 2007, the FIJI Water Foundation has invested over FJD $35 million in community development, access to safe water, education, health and wellness, and environmental sustainability.