Members of the Koroisau Co-operative, based 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 equipped with a three-disc plough, valued at $47,100, to the co-operative during a ceremony at Naboutini Village in Sabeto.
Co-operative chairperson Sikeli Tabua expressed gratitude to the Government for the timely support. “We intend to make the most of this tractor,” Mr. Tabua remarked, highlighting that their co-operative manages two hectares of land planted with cassava, various vegetables, and fruit-bearing trees.
The co-operative aims to become the leading supplier of vegetables to local roadside markets and hotels, with a commitment to quality, quantity, and customer satisfaction. With the new tractor, they believe they can significantly advance toward this goal.
The assistance was part of the Farm Mechanisation Programme, where the co-operative contributed a third of the cost ($15,700), while the Ministry covered the remaining two-thirds. Mr. Tunabuna encouraged co-operative members to become agents of change by empowering themselves in this time of rapid development.
He emphasized the importance of community collaboration, stating, “We no longer depend solely on traditional knowledge passed down by our ancestors to utilize our land. By working together, we will be stronger. The principle of solesolevaki (working in groups) is still relevant today.”
The members of the co-operative eagerly awaited the government’s assistance, which they now believe will elevate their farming capabilities. “I appreciate your patience while the Government secured this tractor, which will reduce the need to rely on others for land preparation,” he added.
Established in January, the Koroisau Co-operative has effectively utilized lands leased from the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) that had previously expired, with plans for further expansion in farming. The co-operative consists of 26 registered members, including 14 females and 12 males, all striving for financial stability and a sustainable market for fresh produce, focusing on nearby resorts and hotels. They have engaged in farming as a business, supplying their produce to the municipal markets of Nadi and Lautoka.
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