Jasnita Ali, a 32-year-old backyard gardener, is set to scale her hydroponic farming operation after being awarded a grant of US$5,000 (approximately F$11,228.75) last week. The grant was provided by the Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program during an event held at Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau.
Ms. Ali plans to utilize the funds to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials and expanding her farm’s infrastructure. “Our goal is to provide fresh, organic, and pesticide-free vegetables directly to consumers at prices lower than what they currently pay,” she explained.
Her business, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), is based in Chinakoti, Ba, and she launched it in September 2022, starting in her own backyard. Ms. Ali turned to hydroponic farming due to the growing concerns over non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the region. She emphasized the importance of a healthy diet for improving lifestyles.
NFFS employs the Dutch Bucket System along with the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) for hydroponics on a quarter-acre plot. She noted, “Using innovative technology such as the automated dosing system from Bluelab allows us to operate efficiently.” The setup enables year-round cultivation of a variety of healthy, chemical-free vegetables.
Furthermore, Ms. Ali’s farm prioritizes inclusivity, as it employs individuals from marginalized communities, including those with disabilities and the unemployed youth. She shared her experiences as a traditional farmer, noting the challenges posed by flooding and drought. “With the hydroponic system, we can grow different vegetable varieties without being affected by climate changes,” she stated.
The GIST program also includes an intensive training course aimed at empowering aspiring innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology through hands-on training and mentoring from US experts, in collaboration with local ecosystem partners.