New tractor to power farming in Rewa’s Burebasaga district

Farmers in the district of Burebasaga, Rewa, are set to take a big step forward in boosting food production following the handover of a $45,600 tractor, a joint investment between the Government and the community.

The new tractor, funded through a two-thirds contribution of $30,400 from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways and a one-third contribution of $15,200 from the iTaukei Trust Fund through the Bulivou Development Cooperative Limited, is expected to make land preparation faster and more efficient for local farmers.

The Bulivou Development Cooperative Limited was formed to look after and drive development projects within the district of Burebasaga. Its main purpose is to support initiatives that improve the lives of the people, such as farming, infrastructure, and community programmess.

The group says the tractor will help increase productivity, cut down on manual labour, and expand farming opportunities.

Speaking during the handover, Assistant Minister for Agriculture, Inosi Kuridrani commended the cooperative for taking ownership of their development goals.

“This is a great example of how government and communities can work together for progress,” said Mr Kuridrani. 

“The only outcome we are looking forward to is to see positive results, farmers using this tractor to increase their yields, improve their income, and strengthen food security in the district.”

Bulivou Development Cooperative secretary, Ketesi Waqadau, said the initiative was a dream come true for many local farmers.

“This tractor is not just for today; it’s an investment for our children’s future,” Mr Waqadau said. 

“It will help us prepare more land for crops, reduce costs, and boost our harvests. We are truly grateful to the Ministry of Agriculture and the iTaukei Trust Fund for their support.”

Mr Kuridrani added that the government remains committed to empowering rural communities through mechanisation and modern farming methods.

“Agriculture is the backbone of Fiji’s economy, and we want to see villages like Burebasaga leading by example,” he said.

“When we support our farmers, we support the nation.”

With the new tractor now ready for use, the people of Burebasaga are confident that their fields, and their future will soon be thriving with new growth.

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