Tomasi Tunabuna, the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, has advocated for the reintroduction of sheep grazing at the Mua Research Station in Taveuni. He believes that allowing sheep to graze will effectively manage undergrowth and improve the station’s resilience to changing weather patterns.
During his recent visit, Tunabuna praised the dedication of the staff at the research station, particularly for their innovative work in breeding diverse coconut varieties aimed at enhancing production. Semisi Tuikilakila, the Officer in Charge, shared that the station is currently focused on breeding 13 different varieties of coconuts and is testing additional strains to optimize economic returns for local farmers.
Tunabuna recognized the critical role of the research station in producing high-quality coconut seedlings, which are essential for the farmers of Fiji. As the agricultural sector faces growing challenges, these initiatives are vital for helping local farmers prosper amid increasingly unpredictable climate conditions.
The proposed sheep grazing initiative, alongside the commitment to breeding resilient coconut varieties, showcases a forward-thinking approach that aims to promote agricultural sustainability in Fiji. Such developments bring hope for the local farming community, empowering them with the resources and strategies needed to enhance productivity and navigate environmental challenges effectively.
Overall, the combined efforts at the Mua Research Station serve not only to improve farmers’ livelihoods but also to build necessary resilience for long-term agricultural success in the region.
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