Twenty-five farmers and market vendors in Levuka have successfully completed a week-long “Basic Vegetable Production Training” aimed at revitalizing the town’s fresh produce supply and rejuvenating its local market. This initiative was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, emphasizing sustainable farming techniques, soil preparation, vegetable husbandry, and climate-smart practices.
At the closing ceremony, Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Inosi Kuridrani, shared insights about Levuka’s agricultural heritage and expressed the importance of restoring the region’s productivity. He reminisced about the bustling Levuka market of the 1980s, which was filled with fresh produce every Saturday, and stressed the need to bring back that abundance.
He stated, “These are tools for change skills that will help us strengthen food and nutrition security and address non-communicable diseases.” This sentiment highlights the comprehensive goals of the training, which focus not just on farming skills but also on improving community resilience, nutrition, and livelihoods.
Kuridrani encouraged participants to implement the knowledge gained from the training into their practices, share insights with fellow farmers, and continue collaborating with Ministry staff for ongoing improvements. The Ministry of Agriculture plans to support farmers further through additional training, technical assistance, and resources such as tools and seedlings.
This initiative mirrors similar programs across Fiji that aim to enhance agricultural productivity and empower local farmers. For instance, less than a month ago, over 30 farmers from Nawairuku participated in a two-day training program that also focused on sustainable practices, reflecting a nationwide commitment to uplift farming communities.
Moreover, recent efforts to provide farmers in Levuka with essential farming equipment, funded by UNDP and supported by the Australian government, further demonstrate a concerted effort to modernize agriculture and improve market supply. This equipment is expected to reduce labor burdens and stabilize vegetable production, offering a practical solution to local supply challenges.
As these training programs continue to expand across different regions in Fiji, the outlook for local agriculture remains hopeful. With sustained support and education, farmers are poised to enhance productivity and contribute positively to community development, ultimately fostering greater food security and economic resilience.