Thirty-six kava farmers from Soa Village in Ra have received essential farming tools valued at $16,252 from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways. This support is part of the Commercial Agriculture Development Programme (CADP), aimed at enhancing agricultural production in the region.
The provided equipment, which includes machinery for land preparation and harvesting, is designed to help farmers refine their crop management techniques, enhance productivity, and respond to the increasing demand in both domestic and export markets. Minister Tomasi Tunabuna, responsible for the initiative, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bolstering Fiji’s kava sector and facilitating the transition of farmers from subsistence farming to commercial agribusiness.
The farmers, who have banded together into five groups and currently manage around 23,000 kava plants, are optimistic about expanding their operations and improving the quality of their crops. Their goal is to restore Soa’s reputation as a significant kava producer.
Local farmer Paula Makubuna expressed her gratitude for the assistance, noting that it brings renewed hope and has a positive impact on the local community. Young farmers in particular have welcomed the support, as it will alleviate labor pressures and allow for larger-scale planting.
The Ministry has assured continuous backing to develop Ra Province into a vital agricultural hub, emphasizing resilience and commercial progress, which brings a hopeful outlook for the farmers and the region’s kava production in the future.