The Minister for Agriculture, Tomasi Tunabuna, has officially unveiled two innovative initiatives designed to transform the agricultural landscape in Fiji: the AgriTourism Programme and the Scaling-Up of Agriculture Value-Added Programme. These programs aim to modernize agriculture and bolster rural livelihoods, showcasing a commitment to advancing Fiji’s agricultural sector beyond traditional production methods.
At the launch event held at the Nacocolevu Research Station in Sigatoka, Minister Tunabuna emphasized the importance of integrating agriculture with the tourism sector, which is pivotal to Fiji’s economy. By creating stronger ties between these two industries, the AgriTourism Programme seeks to enhance local sourcing, making it easier for tourism-dependent areas to access quality agricultural products year-round.
In an effort to tackle challenges identified during consultations with chefs, procurement officers, and distributors from Denarau Island, the Ministry is actively working to improve local processing facilities and strengthen distribution networks. This initiative aims to establish commercial Protected Agriculture Farming Systems that will ensure a consistent supply of quality produce throughout the year. The successful Denarau model is set to be adapted and implemented across other key tourism zones throughout the country.
Simultaneously, the Agriculture Value-Added Programme addresses significant needs voiced at the 2025 National Women in Agriculture Symposium, which highlighted the demand for better access to mechanization and processing facilities. This program will enter a pilot phase aimed at testing its viability, fine-tuning its execution, and establishing frameworks for broader future implementation throughout Fiji.
As part of the launch, selected farmers and agri-entrepreneurs received essential equipment, tools, and support packages to facilitate their participation in these programs. The Ministry’s overarching vision encompasses the development of a modern, diversified, and commercially robust agricultural sector that is fully engaged with trade and innovation, suggesting a proactive approach to enhance productivity and sustainability in Fiji’s agriculture. This initiative brings hope for a revitalized agricultural sector that supports both local communities and the economy at large.