The Taiwan Technical Mission, in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, organized a guava cultivation observation meeting for 60 participants at their office in Nausori on Wednesday. The event aimed to provide technical guidance to women from three villages in the Navuakece district of Naitasiri. It also featured experts from the Ministry of Health and Medical Services as well as students from the Fiji National University (FNU).
Taiwan Technical Mission expert Pascal Kuo explained that the training and field day session included topics such as understanding the guava fruit, preparation and planting methods, care techniques, pest and disease management, and harvesting practices. Kuo noted that the women learned effective guava cultivation practices, which can lead to sufficient yields for sale in markets, thereby generating profits.
“This initiative not only enhances the economic independence of women in the community but also fosters overall community development through small-scale economic improvements, creating a positive cycle,” Mr. Kuo remarked.
He emphasized that guava farming in the South Pacific Islands can be very rewarding due to the region’s favorable climate for tropical and subtropical plants like guava. Kuo mentioned that TTM has supported over 50 farmers managing a total of 17 hectares, resulting in an average yield of 4.61 tonnes per hectare, equating to an annual operating income of approximately $69,150.
Additionally, Kuo highlighted that guavas are rich in vitamin C, containing twice the amount found in kiwis, which can fulfill the daily vitamin C requirements for a family of ten. “Guava is a lucrative business in Fiji, particularly the winter-produced fruit, which is known for its superior sweetness,” he added.