To boost beef farming in the country, nine farmers from Navosa Province have received breeding cattle from the Minister of Agriculture.
Minister Vatimi Rayalu had made a commitment to the farmers earlier this year during a meeting at the Vatumali Government Station, promising that the government would provide them with breeding bulls of the F1 Senepol breed.
The Ministry of Agriculture had previously purchased these cattle from Australia and continues to conduct research and successful embryo transfers in Fiji.
While addressing the farmers at Botona Settlement in Keiyasi, Rayalu emphasized the government’s ambitious plans to rejuvenate the beef farming sector in Fiji.
Senepol cattle are recognized for their adaptability to tropical climates as well as their superior meat quality.
Rayalu stated, “This initiative aims to enhance the genetic quality of the local cattle population, which will in turn lead to improved meat quality, better disease resistance, and increased productivity, all of which are critical for revitalizing the beef industry in Navosa Province.”
One of the recipients, farmer Ravuama Latilevu, expressed that receiving a breeding bull will significantly aid his efforts to expand his beef farm.
The Navosa Livestock Cooperative operates with three clusters, and there are currently 196 registered beef farms in the region. This includes 34 commercial farms, 36 semi-commercial farms, and 126 subsistence farms.
The Ministry of Agriculture plans to implement training and monitoring to ensure the successful integration of these new cattle breeds.