Farmers in Vunivutu Village, located in Macuata, are gearing up to enhance their agricultural efforts following the arrival of a new tractor provided by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways’ Farm Mechanisation Programme. This significant investment is part of a broader initiative aimed at empowering local farmers to maximize their land usage and transition from subsistence to semi-commercial farming.
The tractor has been allocated to the Mataqali Walana Cooperative, which formed in January and currently boasts a membership of 15 individuals. Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna highlighted that this mechanization is designed not only to lower labor demands and land preparation costs but also to enable farmers to cultivate larger plots and diversify their crop production.
Minister Tunabuna emphasized the importance of collaboration among cooperative members, urging that effective and sustainable use of this machinery is essential for long-term success. The cooperative aims to transform 10 acres of idle land, initially focusing on rice production, followed by the cultivation of pineapples and root crops.
Yavusa leader Salacieli Vosamosi expressed optimism that the tractor will significantly reduce manual labor and enhance productivity, steering the group toward commercial farming. He assured that the cooperative is committed to maintaining the machinery properly and will continue to collaborate closely with ministry officials to refine their farming practices.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways is actively encouraging the formation of cooperatives among farmers, promoting participation in government initiatives designed to boost food security, augment productivity, and enhance rural livelihoods. This initiative not only represents a significant step forward for local agriculture in Vunivutu Village but also showcases the potential for cooperative empowerment and sustainable farming practices in the region.
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