To boost beef farming in Fiji, the Minister of Agriculture has delivered breeding cattle to nine farmers in the Navosa Province. Minister Vatimi Rayalu had earlier assured these farmers during a meeting at the Vatumali Government Station that the government would provide them with F1 Senepol breed bulls.
These cattle were originally purchased from Australia several years ago, and the ministry continues to conduct research and successful embryo transfers within Fiji. While addressing the farmers at Botona Settlement in Keiyasi, Rayalu outlined the government’s significant plans to enhance the beef farming industry in the country.
Senepol cattle are recognized for their ability to thrive in tropical climates, as well as their high-quality meat. Rayalu explained, “This initiative aims to improve the genetic quality of local cattle, which will enhance meat quality, boost disease resistance, and increase productivity, all essential for revitalizing the beef industry in Navosa Province.”
Farmer Ravuama Latilevu, one of the recipients, expressed that receiving a breeding bull will greatly aid his efforts in expanding his beef farming operations.
The Navosa Livestock Cooperative currently operates with three clusters and has 196 registered beef farms in the region. Out of these, 34 are commercial farms, 36 are semi-commercial, and the remaining 126 operate as subsistence farms.
The ministry plans to implement training and monitoring to ensure the successful integration of these new cattle breeds.