Divine Farm is making significant strides in Fiji’s agricultural landscape, focusing on pig farming, job creation, and community empowerment. The farm, located in Verata, Tailevu, employs 12 local workers, with a commitment to integrating community members into its workforce. Out of these, three are permanent employees and nine are on project-based contracts, emphasizing the farm’s dedication to local employment as it moves away from the trend of hiring foreign labor.
Emosi Koroitamana, the Director of Divine Farm, expresses the company’s mission to prioritize community development, viewing employees as partners in progress. This hands-on approach ensures that staff are not only engaged in agricultural activities but also receive training that helps them perceive agriculture as a viable and rewarding career option. Koroitamana states, “Our engagement with staff extends beyond typical work settings. We strive to assist with their social needs as well, pushing towards empowering locals.”
The focus on youth engagement and community support also aligns with the broader agricultural developments across Fiji. Similar initiatives have emerged, such as a recent processing facility in Nadi aimed at enhancing market access for rural farmers, highlighting the government’s efforts to bolster local agriculture. This effort is complemented by the recent expansion of various agricultural enterprises, including upgrades at Food Processors Fiji Ltd, which has seen a substantial increase in production capacity and local job creation.
Fiji’s agricultural sector is currently experiencing a transformative phase, marked by a record level of pork production. According to Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu, the country processed 11,833 pigs last year, producing 717 tonnes of meat and significantly contributing to the local economy while reinforcing the nation’s commitment to self-sufficiency in food production.
In this optimistic environment, Divine Farm’s initiatives are part of a larger trend towards sustainable agriculture, making positive impacts not just economically but socially as well. By investing in local talent and fostering a supportive community, Divine Farm serves as a beacon of hope for other agricultural ventures in Fiji, proving that such practices can enhance food security and empower rural communities.