Mushroom cultivation in Nadawa is generating quick income for local women. This initiative is led by Nanise Litea, head of the Nadawa Methodist Women’s Fellowship, which has been revived by former members. Currently, there are 64 women involved in the fellowship, although only a few are actively participating in mushroom growing.
Nanise has been part of the Nadawa community for 30 years and has been leading the fellowship for two years. The mushroom cultivation project was introduced as part of a workshop conducted at their church three months ago, inspired by an effort from one of the fellowship members. Minister for Women, Lynda Tabuya, subsequently visited to witness their progress.
Next week, the Minister will visit again to discuss initiatives for women’s groups and to attend the China-Fiji Juncao Technology Demonstration aimed at enhancing mushroom cultivation training.
Lynda has also provided two cultivation machines after observing the fellowship’s positive growth. One of these machines belongs to a Nadawa woman who is reportedly doing very well in mushroom production. It takes approximately seven days for the mushrooms to mature, and Nanise emphasized that this is a beneficial project that requires consistency and presents a quick return on investment. So far, they have sold mushrooms twice, with sales expected to continue.
Each mushroom basket sells for $5, yielding around 500 grams of product. Despite facing significant market challenges, sales remain steady as women work together with the support of the Minister in selling their mushrooms.
Income from mushroom sales is significantly supporting women’s groups, and there is a determination to expand their market reach. The women have gained insight into the importance of utilizing their skills effectively to enhance their household income.
Currently, they are focusing on maintaining the quality of their mushrooms while planning to strengthen their business operations. Nanise encourages more women in the community to join the women’s group to enhance their skills and potentially develop additional income sources through sustainable initiatives.