Tawakevou Kurusiga, a 75-year-old oyster mushroom farmer from Vutia Village in Rewa, is a passionate advocate for mushroom cultivation, which he describes as “so easy to grow anyone can do it.” As a prominent figure at the China-Fiji Juncao Technical Cooperation Project booth during the 2024 Trade Exhibition of the People’s Republic of China in Fiji, Kurusiga shared his experiences in mushroom farming that began in 2018, paused during the COVID pandemic, and resumed in 2023 with support from the Juncao project.
Kurusiga emphasized the accessibility of mushroom farming, stating that it is an activity that anyone can participate in, including children and the elderly. He noted the principle of inclusivity, highlighting that it can be done by marginalized communities, including persons with disabilities. Mushrooms, according to Kurusiga, can be harvested just eight days after planting, allowing for a rapid turnover. He markets his produce in Suva, selling to Chinese market vendors for around $15 per kilogram, with a typical harvest yielding about $380.
While Kurusiga finds success growing mushrooms in soil that is not suitable for traditional crops, he also mentioned the importance of controlled temperatures and the use of specific mediums. The Juncao grass, a special Chinese variety, plays a critical role in this process. Since 2014, the China-Fiji Juncao Technical Cooperation Project has fostered a community of local mushroom farmers, providing them with the necessary materials and training. Professor Lin Xingsheng, the project’s team leader, remarked on the potential for local farmers to make a significant income quickly, and the center also offers workshops to educate interested locals on mushroom cultivation.
This project not only provides a sustainable source of income but also contributes to various agricultural benefits, such as livestock feed production and soil erosion control.
In conclusion, the initiative represents a valuable opportunity for local communities to improve their economic standing through agriculture. As more individuals like Kurusiga engage in mushroom farming, there is hope for enhanced livelihoods and community resilience, fostering a network of support and knowledge-sharing among participants. This experience illustrates how innovation and collaboration can lead to positive changes in agricultural practices and local economies.
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