A tractor worth $47,800 was handed over to Kade Draidrai Farmers Co-operative Limited by Minister Commerce, Trade, Tourism and Transport Faiyaz Koya, in Bua.

He said the co-operative contributed approximately $15,933, while the Government contributed approximately $31,867, in a one-third two-third investment arrangement between the co-operative and the Government.

“Your commercial dreams are becoming reality today,” Mr Koya said.

“This tractor will enable you to venture into the next phase of economic agricultural development through mechanisation and modernisation
of farms.”

The co-operative started off as a land purchase of co-operative in 1967.

Diversification
It fulfilled its mandate and relooked at its operations by diversifying into a farming co-operative business.

Mr Koya said the revenue earned from the pine harvest in early 2021, was $68,360.40.

The revenue arrived at a time when members needed it the most, to rebuild and provide their families a decent livelihood.

Mr Koya said the co-operative had set aside $5000 for operational use.

Dividends
They were able to distribute dividends to the 22 members.

“There is huge demand for ginger in the Australian market, so is kava and Fijian turmeric,” he said.

“Our range of Fijian Made produce has significant potential, for the niche and high-market around the world.”

Mr Koya encouraged farmers to step out of their comfort zone, and consider producing for export, even setting up their own processing and export facilities.

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