The Uluniwai Farming Cluster, comprising the remote villages of Raviravi, Vuniyamunu, and Naivutu, has celebrated a significant advancement in market access with the inauguration of the Namasaga Farm Access Road. This new infrastructure development comes as a much-needed improvement for local farmers, who previously faced the challenge of walking nearly two hours or relying on horses to transport yaqona, also known as kava, severely limiting their agricultural productivity and income.
The road, funded at $96,500 through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development’s ROI Programme, marks a transformative change for the community. Cluster leader Aliki Nayacamate expressed that farmers have endured significant hardships due to inadequate access, and this project is set to alleviate those burdens.
With kava being the primary income source for the cluster, which boasts over 60,000 yaqona plants, the newly constructed road is expected to enhance productivity, lessen physical strain, and facilitate better access to markets. The farmers are optimistic that improved transport will lead to a boost in production, thereby reinforcing household incomes and elevating living standards throughout Raviravi, Vuniyamunu, and Naivutu.
Overall, this development not only stands to benefit the farmers individually but also promises a brighter future for the entire community as they strive to meet increasing market demands.
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