A mother of three is hoping to sustain her livelihood by participating in the Food Diversification Programme, especially after the price increase of food products.

Mereani Vasei of Yadua Village, Nadroga was one of the five women who represented their clan at the programme.

The three-day programme was held at the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Fiji’s residence – an initiative by the High Commission supported by the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs.

The participants were taught by Elda Lembang, the High Commissioner’s Chef.

Ms Lembang shared her expertise in diversification of foods/cakes from local produce that can be found in Fiji.

The objective was to impart these skills to the women seeking to upskill themselves for entrepreneurial purposes, while diversifying Fijian food preparation.

Ms Vasei, said: “I learned that we can make so many types of cakes from these crops.

“I can even prepare these for my children instead of buying them, chewing gum or other types of sweets.”

Ms Vasei owns a small business in the village and says her community members were eager to learn about her experience.

High Commissioner of Malaysia to Fiji, Ilham Illias, said: “I have been here for three years and this is part of my legacy with my chef who came together to impart our knowledge in food preparation.

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