Fiji’s kava sector is facing significant challenges, primarily attributed to excessive consumption and a decrease in growers rather than solely to the kava dieback disease, according to Agriculture Minister Tomasi Tunabuna. He expressed concerns that ministry assessments indicate the disease is not the sole factor in the sharp decline of kava production.
Minister Tunabuna emphasized that the rising rate of unnecessary kava consumption, coupled with a dwindling number of growers, is negatively impacting overall supply. “I think the biggest worry now is, apart from the disease, is the high consumption, unnecessary consumption of kava,” he stated. This trend is further compounded by poor farming practices and neglect of crops among growers, contributing to declining productivity.
Surveys conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture revealed that many growers fail to adequately tend to their yaqona plants, leading to reduced yields. “A lot of people plant yaqona, they don’t look after the yaqona, so productivity is very much affected by this,” Tunabuna noted. The minister also pointed out significant changes in consumption habits, including increased wastage and inadequate planning in harvesting regimes.
While acknowledging the role of kava dieback, he noted that it represents only a fraction of the challenges affecting the sector. To address these concerns, the ministry is evaluating strategies to mitigate losses and promote sustainable kava production across the nation.
With a focus on improving agricultural practices and addressing consumption issues, there is hope that Fiji’s kava industry can stabilize and thrive in the future, ensuring the livelihoods of growers and the cultural significance of kava remain intact.
Leave a comment