Huge Potential In Organic Farming

Organic farming in Vanua Levu offers a huge potential that would trigger economic growth for the Northern Division.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Tomasi Tunabuna said the division had the potential to develop untapped resources.

“Farmers use fertiliser through traditional methods, in various parts of Vanua Levu,” Mr Tunabuna said.

“Fijians are still very conscious about getting certified organic products because they strictly follow healthy diet.”

A lot of training needs to be carried out for farmers to know the type of fertiliser to use when it comes to organic farming.

CHALLENGES FACED BY ORGANIC FARMERS

Taveuni Island is faced with dalo thefts affecting export efforts.

“The ministry would help link producers with the organic market so that they can sell their produce for the right income,” Mr Tunabuna said.

The other challenge farmers face was the high transportation cost to market.

From left: Foundation for Rural Integrated Enterprises and Development (FRIEND) board president Makalesi Tavaiqia, Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community (POETCom) coordinator Jim Pierce, FRIEND chief executive officer Sainiana Rokovucago, divisional planning officer Northern Setareki Dakuiboca and FRIEND programme manager Melaia Salacakau, at Labasa, on June 19, 2024. Photo: Shratika Naidu

 FARMERS EXPERIENCE

A farmer and member of Nasigasiga Village community, Kaliovati Drotunayaqona said with the support from FRIEND they started organic farming in a small scale in 2016.

“Now we are doing farming on a big scale for bele, dalo stem, lemon, planters, banana and yams,” Mr Drotunayaqona said.

“It’s very easy to use traditional fertiliser on the farm and the crops from our farms are tasty.”

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