Tailevu is making significant strides in enhancing its agricultural sector, which is poised to become a crucial source of income for local communities. Efforts are being concentrated on expanding market access for native products such as cassava, taro, and a variety of vegetables to international buyers. Provincial Council Chair Semi Matalau has announced that a specific market in New Zealand has been identified for cassava and taro, while plans with Air Nauru are underway to facilitate the export of local vegetables.
Matalau underscored the initiative’s aim of unlocking economic opportunities for villagers through farming. The province is teaming up with the iTaukei Land Trust Board to support landowners in formalizing their land use plans, thereby establishing a structured system for more effective resource management.
Recently, representatives have visited areas like Wailotu 2 in Wainibuka, where clan members expressed strong interest in registering their lands under the Trust Board’s guidelines to ensure proper planning. This proactive approach showcases a growing enthusiasm among locals to leverage their land for economic benefit.
Matalau has also urged Tailevu residents with expertise in finance, business administration, and marketing to engage in this initiative. The aim is to create sustainable business models that will enhance market connections and improve economic outcomes. The vision includes empowering landowners to fully utilize their resources—such as crops, livestock, and fisheries—under a unified “Tailevu brand” that guarantees the quality of local products in both domestic and international markets.
This initiative aligns with broader governmental strategies aimed at elevating the economic landscape for indigenous groups throughout the region. With additional projects focused on enhancing governance, financial support for local businesses, and considerable investment in infrastructure, the transition towards a robust agricultural sector appears promising. Notably, agricultural engagement involves approximately 48% of Tailevu’s population, providing a solid foundation for this economic transformation.
The ongoing commitment to developing sustainable agricultural practices not only shines a hopeful light on Tailevu’s future but also sets a positive example for other regions in Fiji. As the government and communities collaborate, there’s a clear pathway being established for local farmers to thrive—fostering food security and contributing to economic stability.