Members of the Korovalewa Cooperative Ltd in Nasama Village, Nadroga, celebrated the arrival of a brand-new tractor aimed at boosting their farming production. This significant contribution from the Ministry of Agriculture’s farm mechanization program marks a milestone for the cooperative’s 18 members, who expressed their gratitude for the support.
Minister of Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna emphasized that this initiative is indicative of the Government’s commitment to assisting rural farmers in making the transition towards commercial agriculture. He highlighted the importance of mechanization in fostering agricultural growth, stating, “By supporting cooperatives like Korovalewa, we are empowering farmers to save time, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in their farm operations.”
The Korovalewa Cooperative, which has been operational for two years, comprises seasoned farmers with between 10 to 40 years of experience. The group manages 55 acres of land, of which 30 acres are arable. Minister Tunabuna praised the cooperative for including young farmers among its members, viewing this as a promising sign for the future of agriculture in Fiji. “It is encouraging to see young people actively involved in farming. The youths are our future — their participation ensures the continuity of agriculture as a sustainable livelihood,” he said.
Cooperative president Iliesa Hanimo remarked that receiving the tractor is not only a major milestone for their group but also a testament to how far they have advanced since establishing the cooperative. The support and resources provided through such initiatives are pivotal in enhancing agricultural practices and promoting sustainability within the community, paving the way for a more prosperous future for all involved.
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