Cikobia Islanders have made their first harvest of home grown potatoes.

District representative Jiasa Ratumuri said

it was the first time that anyone planted potatoes on the island in Macuata Province.

“They returned with a good harvest,” he said

“My nephew brought 20 sprouted potatoes and planted them. It took three months before we made our first harvest. From one sprout there were about 13 potatoes. The island is well known for yams, sweet potatoes and plantain, but now we will venture into planting potatoes.”

Mr Ratumuri said they could become producers of potatoes in the Northern Division and supply to local supermarkets.

“We no longer have to go to Labasa and buy po- tatoes. We now can plant and harvest for family consumption and in the long run, be a source of income,” the ex-tourism industry worker said.

Assistant Roko Tui Macuata Epeli Tabuarua praised the efforts of the maritime islanders of Cikobia.

Mr Tabuarua said it could be a project to give food security and be a source of income for the islanders.

Feedback: laisa.lui@fijisun.com.fj