To boost the beef farming sector in the country, the Minister of Agriculture has provided breeding cattle to nine farmers in the Navosa Province.
Minister Vatimi Rayalu had made a commitment to these farmers earlier this year during a meeting at the Vatumali Government Station, promising that the government would supply them with F1 Senepol Breed bulls.
These cattle breeds were acquired from Australia years ago, and the ministry continues to conduct research and successful embryo transfers in Fiji.
Addressing the farmers at Botona Settlement in Keiyasi, Rayalu outlined the government’s ambitious plans to rejuvenate the beef farming industry in Fiji.
Senepol cattle are recognized for their adaptability to tropical conditions and their high-quality meat. Rayalu stated, “This initiative is intended to enhance the genetic quality of the local cattle population, which will lead to better meat quality, improved disease resistance, and increased productivity, all vital for revitalizing the beef industry in the Navosa Province.”
One recipient, farmer Ravuama Latilevu, expressed that receiving a breeding bull will significantly contribute to the expansion of his beef farming efforts.
The Navosa Livestock Cooperative operates with three clusters and currently boasts 196 registered beef farms in Navosa, including 34 commercial farms, 36 semi-commercial farms, and 126 subsistence farms.
The ministry plans to implement training and monitoring programs to ensure the successful integration of these new breeds into the local farming practices.