Nanise Litea, the leader of the Nadawa Methodist Women’s Fellowship, has highlighted the potential of quickly profitable mushroom cultivation. The organization, which comprises 64 women, has been revitalized after some seniors stepped down.
Nanise mentioned that only a few members are currently involved in mushroom cultivation, despite their collective journey spanning 30 years in Nadawa. Over the past two years, she has been leading the organization. The mushroom farming project began following a successful training session conducted in local churches three months ago, where Minister Lynda Tabuya acknowledged their efforts.
In the coming week, the minister will visit to provide further training regarding women’s organizations, coinciding with the China-Fiji Juncao Technology Demonstration aimed at enhancing mushroom cultivation education.
Lynda also donated two mushroom cultivation machines, observing the progress of their initiatives. Rich soil has proven to be beneficial for the cultivation of mushrooms, which can grow in just seven days. While relatively new to the community, mushrooms are seen as a quick-selling crop.
So far, the women have sold mushrooms twice, and they expect to continue their sales in the coming week at a price of $5 per 500 grams. The market is competitive, but the women are actively marketing their products alongside the support they receive from the government.
Nanise emphasized that the initiative not only empowers them financially but also encourages them to utilize their skills effectively at home. Currently, they are monitoring the mushroom crops and observing their development to ensure consistent growth.
She encourages more women in the community to join the organization, promoting the idea that they can benefit from engaging in local craftsmanship while also producing accessible and affordable food sources.