Members of the Koroisau Co-operative in Nadi celebrated a significant milestone this week as their long-awaited dream came to fruition. On Monday, Tomasi Tunabuna, the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, presented a tractor outfitted with a three-disc plough, valued at $47,100, to the cooperative during a ceremony held in Naboutini Village, Sabeto.
Sikeli Tabua, the chairperson of the co-operative, expressed his gratitude to the government for its timely support. He emphasized their intention to fully utilize the tractor to boost their agricultural production.
The co-operative manages two hectares of land dedicated to cultivating cassava, various vegetables, and fruit trees. Tabua noted that their goal is to become the leading supplier of vegetables to nearby roadside markets and hotels, with an emphasis on quality, quantity, and customer satisfaction. He believes that the new tractor will play a vital role in achieving these objectives.
This assistance is part of the Farm Mechanisation Programme, whereby the co-operative contributed one-third of the cost ($15,700), while the Ministry covered the remaining two-thirds.
Tunabuna encouraged co-operative members to become agents of change by pursuing holistic empowerment in a rapidly evolving environment. He highlighted the importance of moving beyond traditional agricultural practices and emphasized the strength in collaboration, referencing the Fijian concept of solesolevaki, or working in groups.
He acknowledged the members’ patience while awaiting government assistance, stressing that they can now enhance their farming operations without relying on external land preparation services.
The Koroisau Co-operative was established in January and has made productive use of leased lands from the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB). With 26 registered members, including 14 females and 12 males, the co-operative aims to achieve financial stability and establish a sustainable market for fresh produce, particularly targeting local resorts and hotels.
The group has committed to farming as a business and supplies its produce to municipal markets in Nadi and Lautoka.
Leave a comment