Members of the Koroisau Co-operative in Nadi celebrated a significant milestone this week as their aspirations came to fruition. On Monday, Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, presented a tractor outfitted with a three-disc plough, valued at $47,100, to the cooperative during a ceremony in Naboutini Village, Sabeto.
Co-operative chairperson Sikeli Tabua expressed his gratitude for the government’s timely support. He stated, “We will maximize the use of this tractor,” highlighting the cooperative’s two hectares of land dedicated to cassava and various vegetables and fruit-bearing trees.
The co-operative aims to be the leading supplier of vegetables in local roadside markets and hotels, emphasizing high quality, volume, and customer satisfaction. The introduction of the tractor will significantly enhance their farming efficiency, according to Mr. Tabua.
This assistance is part of the Farm Mechanisation Programme, under which the co-operative contributed a third of the total cost, amounting to $15,700, while the Ministry covered the remaining two-thirds. Mr. Tunabuna encouraged the members to take initiative and empower themselves amidst rapid developments.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “The concept of solesolevaki (working in groups) is still magical in this day and age.” Mr. Tunabuna acknowledged the co-operative’s patience while awaiting government support and noted that the new tractor would allow them to prepare their land independently.
The Koroisau Co-operative was established in January and has made effective use of land leased from the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB). With 26 registered members, including 14 women and 12 men, they are focused on achieving financial stability and establishing a sustainable market for fresh produce, particularly in nearby resorts and hotels. The co-operative has taken significant steps towards agricultural enterprise, supplying goods to the Nadi and Lautoka municipal markets.
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