The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee aims to raise over $280,000 for sustainable agriculture projects and similar initiatives. Committee president Zaheen Ibrahim announced this goal during the festival’s opening in Labasa on Saturday.
Ibrahim mentioned plans to develop a sustainable greenhouse garden at the Labasa Divisional Hospital as part of this initiative. The festival theme this year is “Sustainable Agriculture and a Green Economy for the Northern Division,” running from August 31 to September 7.
The project’s objective is to establish self-sufficiency for the hospital in meeting its food needs, reducing costs associated with purchasing vegetables from outside vendors, and ensuring a fresh supply for patients.
Nilesh Singh, the chief guest at the festival’s opening and head of recharge sales and distribution at Vodafone Fiji, commended the committee for its efforts to support the community. He emphasized that the festival provides contestants an opportunity to represent their communities and voices.
“To contestants, maximize this opportunity to your fullest potential,” he stated.
The week-long event will feature twelve queen contestants and three king participants. Ibrahim encouraged residents of the northern region to support the festival, as proceeds from stall fees will be vital for generating income for stall owners. Additionally, a plan to construct washroom facilities at Subrail Park Ground Two is underway to improve the venue’s capacity for hosting events, with an estimated cost of $18,000.