Backyard gardener Jasnita Ali, 32, is set to expand her hydroponic farming operation to a commercial scale after being awarded a grant of US$5,000 (F$11,228.75) last week. The Global Innovation through Science and Technology (GIST) program presented the grant to Ms. Ali at the Hilton Fiji Resort on Denarau on Wednesday.
Ms. Ali plans to use the funds to enhance her business by purchasing additional materials to extend her infrastructure. “We aim to produce fresh, organic, chemical and pesticide-free vegetables and sell them to consumers at a much lower price than what they currently pay,” she stated.
Her company, Nature’s Farm Fresh Supplies (NFFS), operates as a small-scale hydroponic farm located in Chinakoti, Ba, which she started in September 2022. Ms. Ali ventured into hydroponic farming due to the increasing risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.
“It is vital for customers to choose a healthy eating style, which will result in an improved lifestyle,” she emphasized. NFFS utilizes the Dutch Bucket System along with the Deep Flow Technique (DFT) hydroponics system to grow crops on a quarter-acre of land.
“We employ innovative technology such as an automated dosing system from Bluelab to manage our operations,” added Ms. Ali. She noted that the hydroponic system allows for a diverse range of crops to be cultivated year-round, ensuring a steady supply of fresh, healthy, and chemical-free vegetables.
In addition to growing crops, Ms. Ali is committed to inclusivity, employing individuals with disabilities, members of the LGBTIQ community, and unemployed youths. She reflected on her past as a traditional farmer, stating, “I faced numerous challenges with crop production during flooding and drought. Now, with hydroponics, we can grow various vegetables regardless of climate changes.”
The GIST initiative offers intensive business training aimed at empowering young innovators and entrepreneurs in science and technology through practical training and mentorship provided by leading US experts in collaboration with local partners.