Government's mechanisation drive boosts Nasikasika farmers to work harder

Vegetable farmers in Nasikasika, Korotari, Labasa, are set for an early Christmas celebration after the Nasikasika Farmers’ Cooperative received a new tractor.

Cooperative president Sailesh Nand described the $46,000 tractor as “the best Christmas gift the community could have wished for,” saying it will greatly improve land preparation and help boost crop yields.

Mr Nand said the cooperative has 10 active members who will benefit directly from the assistance and thanked the Ministry of Agriculture for its support.

While handing over the tractor, Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna emphasized that farmers must take ownership of the machinery and ensure it is used to grow financially.

He said food security remains a priority, and supporting farmers at the grassroots level is essential.

“Land preparation has been a major challenge for farmers, who previously relied on bullocks or hired tractors from private owners. It is costly to hire a tractor, but now we will be able to save money on this extra expense,” Mr Nand said.

The cooperative contributed one-third of the tractor’s total cost, with the Government covering the remaining two-thirds.

“We will use the tractor responsibly and ensure each farmer increases their crop yield through timely land preparation,” Mr Nand added.

The youngest member of the cooperative is 38 years old, while the oldest is 54.

Mr Nand said retaining younger farmers in the industry depends largely on mechanisation and access to resources, as traditional farming methods are no longer viable.

The cooperative currently grows a wide range of vegetables and plans to expand into ginger and pineapple farming.

“Labour shortages in sugarcane farming have led many of our members to shift to vegetable farming, and this tractor assistance will empower them to remain in the industry,” he said.

Nasikasika, located in Korotari, is widely known as the “salad bowl of Labasa.”

The majority of Labasa’s vegetable supply comes from this area, with middlemen and market vendors relying heavily on farmers to provide a consistent daily supply.