Farmers in Korotari, Labasa, are embracing innovative agricultural practices focused on sustainable land use, climate adaptability, and food security, moving away from traditional cane farming. Advisory Counsellor Satish Chand highlighted that this initiative is designed to assist landowners in transforming unused land into profitable ventures while simultaneously mitigating the vegetable shortage at the Labasa market.
Chand emphasized the importance of encouraging farmers, particularly iTaukei landowners, to collaborate and share insights on modern farming techniques. The Ministry is advocating for diversification beyond conventional crops such as yaqona and cassava, urging a shift towards vegetable farming. “Vegetable farming is very rare in iTaukei farmlands, so the Ministry is promoting the planting of cabbage, tomatoes, watermelon, cucumber, and other crops that can be supplied to the market,” he stated.
This effort is part of the Land Resources Planning and Development programme, which has already yielded positive impacts for farmers in the region. However, challenges persist, as farmer Anand Kumar acknowledged the impact of climate change on agricultural productivity. He noted that the region experiences a cycle of flooding from November to April and drought from June to November, forcing farmers to rely on water pumps during dry spells. Kumar himself cultivates tubua on hilly terrains, adapting to the local climate challenges.
Despite Korotari’s status as a significant sugar-producing area, the farming community is now extending its focus to vegetable cultivation along the Korotari River. By maximizing the use of vacant land and diversifying crops, farmers are poised to enhance their incomes and improve the local food supply this year, contributing significantly to the region’s agricultural resilience and food security. This positive shift not only supports the livelihoods of local farmers but also promotes a sustainable approach to agriculture that can withstand climate challenges.