Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu has announced significant investments aimed at bolstering the Agriculture Marketing Authority (AMA). A key highlight is the establishment of an AMA center in Legalega, Nadi, which is designed to better support farmers in the western region of Fiji and alleviate the current pressure on the Nausori facility.
Rayalu stated that the expansion efforts include new centers already in Savusavu, Dama, and Lautoka. Additionally, an ambitious plan is underway to construct a new headquarters for the AMA, projected to cost around $8 million. This new headquarters is expected not only to enhance the operational capacity of the AMA but also to generate an estimated rental income of over $4 million, an investment that aims to strengthen the financial sustainability of the organization.
The minister noted a positive surge in the production of crops like cassava and dalo, indicating that government-funded programs are yielding results. However, he also acknowledged that such success comes with new challenges, such as storage limitations that currently leave over 32 tons of produce stagnant at the Nausori AMA. In light of this, Rayalu has called for the construction of modern collection centers and cold storage facilities. These initiatives are not merely stopgap solutions but strategic investments intended to foster long-term rural growth and resilience.
Previously, the AMA has disbursed over $18 million to more than 5,000 farmers in rural and maritime areas over the past five years. The organization emphasizes the need for improved marketing coordination and sustainable agricultural practices, as detailed in its Strategic Development Plan (SDP) for 2024-2026. This plan aims to enhance local production and support the farm sector while considering environmental sustainability and human nutrition.
These detailed steps reflect a comprehensive approach towards enhancing Fiji’s agricultural sector, indicating a hopeful trajectory for local farmers and the economy. The government’s commitment to infrastructure improvement, alongside education initiatives for farmers, sets a strong foundation for future growth and prosperity in the agriculture industry.
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