Picture: Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment, Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy addresses farmers in Tukavesi, Saqani, Cakaudrove on Saturday (26.2.22)

Cakaudrove plays a very significant part in the Government's overall vision to increase agriculture production as well as exports.

The comment was made by Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment, Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy whilst handing officiating at the handover ceremony of Offer letters to successful recipients of Small Farming Equipment and Irrigation Kits in Tukavesi, Saqani, Cakaudrove and Belego, Wailevu West, Cakaudrove yesterday (26.2.22)

“Every month, through Agro Marketing Authority (AMA) we are picking up a total of 72 tonnes of produce from Cakaudrove, Bua and Macuata. That translates to 20 tons of dalo from Savusavu; 30 tons of dalo from Taveuni; 16 tons of cassava from Bua and Macuata, and six tons of fish from Qeleniwai.

“Through AMA, on average we are paying farmers $110,000 every month,” he said.

The Minister explained not only was the Authority the only exporter picking up farmers’ produce in Vanua Levu but it was also mandated by law to buy and collect produce from farmers in the interior and rural maritime areas.

He added there was potential to export more.

“We can search for new markets and increase the quota. We can go beyond 72 tons but we need consistent supply. This needs planning.”

He encouraged the farmers to discuss this with the Senior Agriculture Officer Cakaudrove and locality officers on the way forward.

The Hon. Dr Reddy said farmers, laborers, landowners, exporters, processors, middlemen – all those in the agriculture sector played a vital role in the Fijian economy.

“When agriculture production increases, everyone benefits not only Fiji, in terms of the national income. In any business or any business activity, when income increases it is distributed to all those involved in the business,” he said.

He said it was similar to the agriculture sector.

“When agriculture output increases there is more money. Whoever is the agriculture entrepreneur will take the money and distribute it to households, farmers, laborers, landowners, and others.

 “We strongly encourage you to produce more, so we can increase the income for all those involved in this industry.”

 -ENDS-

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