Close to 10,000 people attended the Northern Agriculture Show over the two days in Labasa last week.

 Ministry of Agriculture Permanent Secretary, Mr Ritesh Dass said COVID-19 screenings were conducted at the entry point into Subrail Park.

“The Northern Agriculture Show was a success not only in terms of the total number of people who crossed the gate to attend the event over the two days, but there was also strong participation from our stakeholders and farmers who were actively involved in the show. We recognize everyone for taking part and sharing information about their services and products with the people of Labasa, and a special recognition to our farmers who came with their commodities and livestock to sell, or to learn more about Ministry’s programmes and services,” he said.

 Mr Dass said the Agriculture Show was also an opportune time for farmers to exchange ideas and information with other farmers as well as meet other stakeholders and discuss their wide range of products and services, and how to access these.

He said, in essence, it was a great event which was also blessed with dry and sunny weather.

 “As opposed to the Central Agriculture Show which unfortunately was marred with rain in Nausori two weeks ago, the show in Labasa enjoyed clear blue skies, and it was fantastic to see people coming out in numbers, including school children who attended the Northern Agriculture Show after hours.

“The show is a great platform to showcase to students an alternative career option that can be just as rewarding as or possibly even more so than those of us working in the formal sector.”

 Mr Dass also acknowledged the sponsors who chipped in to help by way of donating prizes for the Farmers Awards.

“A huge thanks goes to all our sponsors and the gifts you gave. I am confident that the farmers who are recognized appreciate the gesture and would make good use of your products on their farms.”

 He said the Ministry was now preparing for the last Agriculture Show which would be held in the Western Division.

“We have the final Agriculture Show this week in Nadi for three days from Wednesday, 28 October to Friday, 30 October at Koroivolu Park and invite those of you who are in the West to mark the dates and come and see us,” he said.

 The Permanent Secretary said the Western Agriculture Show would be held for the first two days, while the final day on Friday (30.10.20) would feature the National Farmers Awards ceremony.

“The National Farmers Awards is the highlight of all Agriculture Shows where we pay tribute and recognize the efforts of our farmers who have contributed to the growth of our economy.”

“Farmers are our main stakeholders and this is our way to recognize their hard work”, he said.

 Mr Dass also acknowledged the efforts of the staff of the Ministry in the Central and Northern Divisions who worked tirelessly to organize their respective Agriculture Shows.

“A sincere thanks to all the Central and Northern teams for all your hard work including long hours that went in to pull through this event. Please note that we appreciate each and everyone’s contribution to make these events possible and successful,” he said.

 -ENDS-

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