A group of motivated young men and women from Narewa Village in Nadi is making strides to enhance their community through agricultural initiatives. The members belong to the Sa Dina Youth Cooperative, which includes a total of 69 individuals, primarily youth.
Co-founder Buli Ratu highlighted that the cooperative has been operational since the 1960s, primarily focusing on cassava farming. “Currently, our cooperative consists of 32 youth, 10 women, and 27 men. We are actively involved not only in agriculture but also in communal activities, including village clean-up efforts for healthier living,” Mr. Ratu stated.
Last year, the group officially registered as a cooperative with the Ministry of Trade, Cooperatives, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and Communications. Recently, they received a tractor from the Ministry of Agriculture, partially funded by the government.
“The acquisition of this tractor significantly enhances our ability to prepare our land for cultivation,” Mr. Ratu remarked. “Our determination enabled us to cover one-third of the total cost of the tractor. We recognize the challenges ahead, but we believe that our unity will lead to fruitful outcomes in the near future.”
He mentioned that the youth are employing the solesolevaki (group work) approach to farming, which helps in mutual support. The Sa Dina Youth Cooperative has also established a contract with the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa to supply vegetables and cassava.
Minister for Agriculture Vatimi Rayalu emphasized the importance of youth involvement in agriculture as a means to foster stronger and more productive communities.