The FIJI Water Foundation, one of Fiji’s largest philanthropic organizations, has introduced its innovative “Women in Agriculture Initiative” pilot project. This initiative, in collaboration with women’s groups from six villages in the Yaqara Valley, Ra, aims to utilize unused land and empower local women to engage in sustainable farming with support from the Foundation.
The pilot’s first phase commenced with the women’s group in Drauniivi Village. Uraia Waibuta, Head of the Navuso Agricultural Technical Institute, remarked, “This initiative aims to enhance the agricultural skills of women in the Yaqara Valley, enabling them to make healthier choices for their families.”
Semi Lotawa, Director of FIJI Water Foundation, stated, “Our goal is to create a sustainable, women-led agricultural supply chain that offers quality fresh produce year-round.” He added that this effort would improve health and economic stability for women in the region and ensure future generations have access to nutritious food.
The program will provide women with training in agricultural best practices, including crop rotation, climate-smart techniques like drip irrigation, and understanding seasonal planting. The participating villages are Drauniivi, Naseyani, Nananu, Togovere, Narauyaba, and Rabulu, with each women’s group managing a one-acre farm plot to cultivate various crops.
To promote a steady produce market and healthier living, the crops will be sold and delivered in vegetable packs biweekly to over 300 FIJI Water employees at the Yaqara Plant. This community-driven initiative aims to transform the economic landscape for women, aspiring for them to manage successful semi-commercial farms and bolster Fiji’s food security.
Waibuta, who also chairs the Yaqara Pastoral Company, said, “This is a significant training and mentorship opportunity for women, fostering positive change in their communities. We are honored to collaborate with the FIJI Water Foundation to enhance its philanthropic and community development work.”
The FIJI Water Foundation, a division of The Wonderful Company, has provided more than USD $2.5 billion globally in philanthropic and corporate social responsibility initiatives, focusing on education, health and wellness, affordable housing, infrastructure, the arts, and sustainability.
Since its launch 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.