A pivotal moment for rural development emerged this week in Rewa as the Bulavou Development Cooperative Limited was officially handed a tractor and essential farming implements under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Farm Mechanization Program. This event, which took place in Burebasaga Village, was attended by Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Inosi Kuridrani, and Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, who reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering grassroots communities through innovative solutions and infrastructure development.
The investment, totaling $45,000 and shared between the government (one-third) and the cooperative (two-thirds), is expected to significantly enhance food security, agricultural productivity, and sustainable livelihoods in Rewa, a region renowned for its fertile lands and agricultural heritage. The Bulavou Cooperative, comprising 100 members from the neighboring communities of Waivou, Burebasaga, Suvalailai, and Naivikasara, is embracing mechanization as a strategic approach to foster growth.
During the ceremony, Kuridrani praised the cooperative’s unity and proactive stance, noting that the new tractor would alleviate labor burdens, expedite land preparation, and create viable opportunities for youth and women in agri-business ventures. “Bulavou Cooperative has shown what’s possible when communities work together with purpose,” he remarked.
The Farm Mechanization Program is part of the government’s wider strategy to support rural cooperatives throughout Fiji, aiding farmers in transitioning from subsistence to commercial farming models. This aligns with similar initiatives across the nation, where cooperatives like the Dravuni Methodist Men’s Farming Cluster have also received tractors to bolster agricultural activities and improve local livelihoods.
Expressing his gratitude, Rokotunimatadreketi Ratu Watisoni Vakalutukali emphasized that this long-awaited support is a testament to their perseverance and solidarity. The event also highlighted a comprehensive government approach to rural development, integrating agriculture with transport and infrastructure to strengthen community resilience.
As Fiji continues to enhance its farming capabilities, programs like these foster a sense of optimism and unity among rural communities. The renewed focus on mechanization not only improves productivity but also opens doors for further economic growth and food security in the region.
Leave a comment