Fiji Pine Buys Harvested Pine from Kadavu
“Plans are already underway to provide assistance to other maritime islands engaged in pine cultivation,” he said.
Thursday 25 January 2024 | 15:25
Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Kalaveti Ravu (with garland) hands over the pine harvesting licence to Fiji Pine Trust manager Timoci Nabou (third from left) and with other stakeholders.
Villagers in Muani, Kadavu, are set to distribute more than $800,000 following the transfer of their pine harvesting licence.
During an official handover ceremony, the Muani Pine Scheme representative Uate Naua expressed relief as their 40-year-long wait finally came to an end.
He conveyed deep gratitude to the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry, Kalaveti Ravu, for creating opportunities that have transformed their lives.
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“Today, the licence has been granted to Fiji Pine Trust, enabling us to harvest our pines. Additionally, the Government has generously provided the Trust with a four-wheel drive and a bulldozer to facilitate the harvesting process,” Mr Naua said.
Official launching of the harvesting operations in Muani, Kadavu.
Tuesday’s event included the distribution of coconut seedlings and lime plants as part of the 30 million trees in 15-year initiative of Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry.
Resource owners have been encouraged to plant more pine on their talasiga land (degraded land) as Fiji Pine Trust will be responsible in the replanting of pine harvested area.
Pine scheme owners in Kadavu were urged to give their consent to Fiji Pine Trust for the harvesting of matured pine forests.
Mr Ravu continues his tour in Kadavu today.
Source: DEPTFO News
