A youth group in Tailevu is advocating for the creation of a council dedicated to kava farmers, aiming to address challenges that kava-farming communities face. This initiative was voiced during a recent consultation on the Kava Bill held in Korovou Town.
Eparama Ramasi, the adviser for Mataka Vou Ki Nadevo, spoke passionately about the importance of agriculture in steering young people away from drugs and negative influences. He shared insights about their farming operations, which are situated approximately six kilometers into the forest, with the group leaving early in the morning and returning by evening.
The challenges confronting the youth farmers include poor road conditions and the need to traverse streams to reach their farms. Despite these difficulties, Ramasi emphasized the community-driven nature of their initiative, designed to keep youths engaged and focused on productive activities rather than succumbing to peer pressure or drug use.
The group participated in the Kava Bill consultation to gain knowledge about best practices in kava farming, aiming to enhance the preservation and nurturing of their plants. Ramasi noted that they have successfully planted around 10,000 kava plants, with the involvement of eight dedicated youths. He is in charge of one of several youth groups within the community, underscoring the collective effort to promote sustainable agriculture and develop a positive path for local young people.
This initiative not only aims to strengthen the kava industry but also seeks to cultivate a sense of purpose among the youth, fostering a brighter future through agriculture while addressing the pressing need for improved support and representation for kava farmers.