The Agriculture Minister of Fiji, Tomasi Tunabuna, has voiced urgent concerns about the aging farming demographic in the country and the pressing need to entice more young individuals into the agricultural sector. During his recent addresses, he highlighted a prevalent perception among Fijians that farming is often seen as a “last option.” This perspective, if left unaddressed, could jeopardize the nation’s long-term food security and rural development efforts.
Tunabuna pointed out that many young Fijians currently regard farming merely as subsistence work, which threatens to undermine sustainable agricultural practices. “We need to train our young farmers to replace the old farmers and ensure a continuous local food supply,” he stressed, urging for a shift in how agriculture is viewed by the youth.
The government is putting resources into youth agricultural training and business support to foster interest and skills in farming. Minister Tunabuna emphasized that agriculture should be perceived not just as a livelihood but as a profitable business that is vital for Fiji’s food security and economic stability. “We can easily provide our population with quality, affordable food if we invest in local production,” he added, signifying the critical link between agricultural investment and food accessibility.
The Ministry of Agriculture has recognized that attracting and retaining young farmers is essential for the future of the agricultural sector. There is a growing acknowledgment from both the government and community organizations that reframing agriculture as a viable and appealing career is necessary to engage younger generations. This perspective aligns with ongoing efforts documented in previous reports, which note a similar sentiment from officials like former Agriculture Minister Vatimi Rayalu, who has also stressed the importance of empowering youth through proper training and resources.
Innovative initiatives such as community programs and the introduction of climate-resilient agricultural practices have shown promise in attracting youth to farming. Current discussions reflect a collective movement towards revitalizing Fiji’s agricultural landscape, paving the way for a future where sustainable practices flourish, and food security is enhanced. By investing in the next wave of farmers, Fiji has the potential not only to improve local food production but also to cultivate a sense of pride and connection to the land among younger generations.