Divine Farm in Verata, Tailevu, is cultivating more than crops; it is nurturing opportunities for growth and employment. Managed by Divine Fijian Home Care, the farm currently oversees 48,000 dalo plants alongside a burgeoning piggery, contributing positively to Fiji’s food supply while creating job prospects in rural areas.
Emosi Koroitamana, the director of Divine Farm, highlights the operation’s commitment to community welfare, stating that the farm employs 12 individuals, consisting of three permanent staff and nine on a project-based arrangement. The blend of traditional and modern agricultural techniques helps in producing healthy and flavorful food items. Koroitamana emphasizes their mission: “We want to give our senior citizens quality pork and root crops, and we treat our staff like family.”
According to Sitiveni Kalou, a representative of DFHC Fiji, the farm’s long-term vision includes expanding production capabilities, improving soil health, and fostering community-driven projects. This initiative is emblematic of a broader trend in Fiji’s agricultural landscape, where local farmers and businesses increasingly focus on sustainability, economic resilience, and community empowerment.
Similar to Divine Farm’s objectives, recent agricultural developments across Fiji, such as the establishment of processing and cold storage facilities in Nadi aimed at supporting rural farmers, highlight the government’s dedication to enhancing market access and promoting local farming. These initiatives not only help local farmers thrive in commercial agricultural practices but also aim to create a more inclusive economy.
The positive trajectory of agriculture in Fiji signifies a hopeful outlook for both farmers and the communities they serve, proving that agriculture has the potential to cultivate both food and futures. As these projects evolve, they pave the way for a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.
Leave a comment