Rakiraki’s agriculture sector is set for growth as Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Inosi Kuridrani unveils strategies to boost productivity and farmer incomes. During a visit to the Rakiraki Agriculture Office and its satellite stations, he spoke directly with staff about ways to lift output and improve access to markets. Kuridrani outlined key crops and livestock with strong local and export potential and stressed that farming can be a pathway to economic empowerment. He pledged support through tools, training, and market connections tailored to Rakiraki’s climate and soils.
Kuridrani also urged greater youth participation, highlighting that technology, sustainability, and entrepreneurship are vital for farming’s future. He encouraged young people to view agriculture as a viable business that can drive economic growth in the province. Acknowledging staff dedication, he noted that improving their welfare will strengthen service delivery, especially in remote areas where officers face challenging conditions. The Ministry of Agriculture is rolling out national initiatives, with Rakiraki positioned as a hub for agricultural transformation and innovation.
Context and added value
– This visit aligns with broader government efforts to modernize Fiji’s agriculture, including market-driven reforms, stronger market access, and ongoing infrastructure improvements that connect farmers to buyers.
– The emphasis on youth, technology, and entrepreneurship reflects a nationwide push to turn farming into a more dynamic, business-oriented sector.
– Improvements in staff welfare and remote-area service delivery echo reforms aimed at making agricultural support more responsive and equitable across the country.
– Rakiraki’s designation as a hub suggests potential ripple effects for the region, including better access to training, resources, and market opportunities for farmers.
What this could mean for readers and farmers
– Farmers in Rakiraki may see enhanced market access and greater opportunities to connect with buyers, including export pathways for high-potential crops and livestock.
– Young people could be encouraged to pursue farming as a long-term, viable career, with training and tech-enabled solutions supporting sustainable growth.
– The emphasis on staff welfare and remote-area service delivery could lead to more timely and effective agricultural support for rural communities.
Summary
Assistant Minister Kuridrani’s visit signals a concerted push to elevate Rakiraki as a model of agricultural transformation, combining productivity improvements with market access and youth engagement. Through targeted support, training, and better linkages to markets, the move aims to raise farmer incomes and strengthen the province’s role in Fiji’s broader agricultural development.
Positive outlook
This initiative offers a hopeful path toward a more resilient, market-oriented agricultural sector in Rakiraki, with potential benefits including higher yields, expanded income streams for farmers, greater youth involvement, and stronger linkages between producers and markets. If sustained, it could contribute to longer-term food security and regional economic growth.
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