A landmark agreement has been established to promote agricultural advancement on Taveuni Island, as the Fijian Government has pledged structured support to the landowners of Naselesele Village. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed on September 9, 2025, with the yavusa o Wainikeli—the trustee of the landowning unit of Naselesele—was announced by Agriculture and Waterways Minister Tomasi Tunabuna during a parliamentary session.
Minister Tunabuna articulated the initiative’s objective to transform around 1,182 acres of trust land into productive agricultural use, which aims to create income opportunities for landowning members and establish a model capable of being replicated by other communities. Taveuni, often dubbed the “garden island of Fiji,” is vital to the country’s economy, contributing over 50 percent of Fiji’s taro exports and serving as a major source of yaqona, fruits, vegetables, and spices.
The MOU emphasizes several critical elements, including land-use planning, farm visits, crop research, pest and irrigation management, enhancement of farm-to-market roads, and provision of essential tools and seedlings, along with environmental protections. Funding for the project will be secured through capital programs, while ministry extension officers will oversee its execution.
During an initial three-year pilot phase, landowners have pledged to allocate the land exclusively for commercial agricultural activities. A successful outcome could lead to the expansion of this model to other regions across Fiji, including smaller islands. Moreover, the initiative intends to address soil fertility challenges through agroforestry research and will implement programs to combat the kava dieback issue.
Minister Tunabuna conveyed that the MOU represents more than just a formal agreement; it encapsulates a shared belief in the importance of inclusive and innovative agricultural practices for Fiji’s future development. This initiative is expected to not only boost agricultural productivity and economic security but also empower local communities by fostering a sustainable approach to land utilization and agricultural progress.
The collaboration between the government and local landowners heralds a positive outlook for agriculture in Taveuni, aiming to elevate traditional farming practices into modern, commercially viable enterprises that will benefit the entire community.