The cultivation of mushrooms has become a promising endeavor for generating quick income, as highlighted by Nanise Litea, the leader of the Nadawa Methodist Women’s Fellowship. The organization has revived its activities after being initially established by the elders who have since passed away. Currently, the group comprises 64 women, though only a few are actively participating in mushroom farming.
Nanise has been involved in the community for 30 years and has led the group for the past two years. The initiative began three months ago following a demonstration conducted at their church, where Lynda Tabuya, the Minister for Women, observed the group’s efforts after one member introduced a small batch of mushrooms.
Next week, Minister Tabuya plans to visit the area to provide support and address issues concerning women’s groups, alongside a visit from the China-Fiji Juncao Technology Demonstration project, which aims to enhance the education related to mushroom farming.
In addition, Lynda provided the group with two pieces of equipment after witnessing their progress. One of the women remarked on the effectiveness of the process, which takes about seven days for a batch of mushrooms to mature. While the method is relatively new, it has proven to be a lucrative crop with quick sales and high demand.
Currently, they are selling mushrooms at a price of $5 per 500 grams. Although the market had been facing challenges, sales have significantly improved, benefiting the women’s group and their financial outcomes. They continue to explore ways to use their skills effectively while enhancing their income-generating activities.
Nanise encourages more women in the community to join the organization to leverage their manual skills in mushroom farming, which not only improves their livelihoods but also addresses food security.