Farmers in Levuka, Fiji, have received a sizable boost with the handover of two rotavators funded by UNDP and supported by the Australian government. The handover is part of the Market for Change project, which assists farmers and vendors across Fiji’s municipal markets, including Levuka’s.
Project Manager Vilisi Veibataki said the initiative was made possible through Australian government funding in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, UNDP, and the Levuka Market Association. The handover follows local vendor consultations that highlighted shortages of vegetables and crops in Levuka, as well as labor-related challenges. There was a clear request for technological support to help improve efficiency and supply.
With the rotavators now in place, the UNDP is optimistic that these tools will ease the daily workload for farmers and help stabilize and boost Levuka’s market supply. Usage will require registration, and a fee of 10 dollars per week will apply. A capacity-building session on agricultural development and technological support was held earlier this week to accompany the equipment.
Local farmers and vendors expressed deep gratitude, saying they had anticipated this support for years. The initiative is seen as a practical step toward strengthening Levuka’s agricultural output and market reliability.
This handover fits within a broader pattern of rural development efforts in Fiji, where government and development partners are providing practical tools to farmers and market suppliers. Similar initiatives in other parts of Fiji have included agricultural tooling and equipment, as well as infrastructure support designed to empower rural communities and improve market access.
Summary: Levuka’s farmers received two rotavators through UNDP and Australian government support under the Market for Change program, aiming to reduce labor burdens, increase vegetable supply, and improve market resilience, with a small weekly usage fee and a related training session.
Commentary and outlook: This targeted support addresses concrete needs raised by local vendors and aligns with ongoing efforts to modernize rural farming in Fiji. If sustained, it could lead to steadier supplies in Levuka’s markets and create opportunities for farmers to expand vegetable and crop production, contributing to food security and local livelihoods.
Positive note: The collaboration among government agencies, international partners, and local market groups demonstrates a shared commitment to practical, on-the-ground improvements for Fiji’s rural communities.
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