Na Momo Levu Na Tui Sabeto Signs With AMA
September 10, 2020
_receives_the_contract_from_Minister_for_Agriculture_Waterways_and_Environment_the_Hon_Dr_Mahendra_Reddy_in.jpg)
Picture :Ratu Josaia Nabukatavatava (yellow Bula shirt) receives the contract from Minister for Agriculture
Na Momo Levu Na Tui Sabeto has become the latest commercial farmer to sign up with Agro Marketing Authority.
The signing which took place at Sabeto Village on Wednesday (10.9.20) saw the Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment the Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy officiating at the signing between AMA CEO Mr. Alvin Sharma and representing Na Momo Levu Na Tui Sabeto was his younger brother Ratu Josaia Nabukatavatava.
“Today, we are here to support the initiative. I want to thank the Vanua o Sabeto for being part of that commercial cluster farming model,” the Hon. Minister said.
“I want to thank Na Momo Levu Na Tui Sabeto for taking leadership in joining the Sabeto cluster and becoming or contributing towards agriculture growth and development.”
The signing means that Na Momo Levu Na Tui Sabeto is now contracted to produce about six acres of duruka, tavioka and other cash crops to AMA, confirms Ratu Jo.
Dr Reddy said the advantages of been part of a commercial cluster farming model were that farmers would grow similar crops; all would share in the same training and knowledge; and there would be consistency in supply and quality for export.
He said this model was applicable to Fiji.
He further stated that agriculture was a sector that did not require too much skills or even an academic qualification.
“Agriculture will provide you with a hands-on skills learning environment.”
The Hon. Minister said while other sectors closed down due to the COVID-19 earlier this year, it was only agriculture that continued and even gained momentum in terms of a notable increase in agriculture production.
“It was agriculture that kept the economy going. It was agriculture that gave hope to a lot of households that they can survive and pass through this particular crisis.
“Agriculture became the fall back for the nation for a lot of households that lost their jobs in the formal sector.”
Dr Reddy said it was interesting to observe the urban population engaging in agriculture practices.
“Interestingly, when you pass through the Suva-Nausori corridor, you will see that a lot of people have dug up their front yard or lawn and converted it into vegetable gardens. Those front yards that used to be empty are now filled with vegetables.”
-ENDS-
