Fiji is susceptible to natural disasters and farmers must mitigate the impacts of these disasters and cultivate their land to produce more root crops like yams.

These were the remarks by the Assistant Minister for Education, Honourable Iliesa Vanawalu who accompanied the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna to officiate at the 2024 Wailevu West Yam Show at Nakorovatu village, Wailevu West, in Cakaudrove.

“We come together to not only showcase the bountiful harvest of yams but also recognize the dedication and hard work of our farmers, especially the young generation who are the future of our agricultural sector,” said Hon. Vanawalu.

“I am proud to see the enthusiasm and commitment of our farmers in promoting yam production in the Tikina Wailevu. This crop holds a significant place in our agricultural heritage, and it is very encouraging to witness its cultivation thriving in our local communities.”

He added that its resilience will ensure that we are food and nutrition secure after a disaster strikes, now and into the future.

“In 2023, you were able to harvest an impressive eight tonnes of yams from two hectares of land, thanks to the contribution of approximately 170 farmers,” said Hon. Vanawalu.

“This demonstrates not only the productivity of the land but also the resilience and skill of our farmers in maximising agricultural output.”

Hon. Vanawalu added that it is essential to recognise the demographic composition of their family community. Among the total population of 5755 individuals in their locality, they have 2219 farmers, with 170 specifically dedicated to Yam cultivation.

Gender-wise, the Tikina Wailevu has 140 males and 30 females engaged in agriculture as their primary economic activity.

“In our efforts to support and empower our farmers, various training initiatives have been conducted in the area, including programs focusing on food and income security, as well as specialized training in dalo cultivation in villages like Laucala and Naiqaqi. These initiatives aim to equip farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge to enhance agricultural practices and improve livelihoods,” said Hon Vanawalu.

Both Hon. Vanawalu and Hon. Tunabuna encouraged farmers to explore opportunities for value addition, particularly in yam production.

“One promising avenue is the production of yam chips, which represents a potential for innovation and increased market value for our agricultural products."

Unaisi Qarau, a female yam farmer from Vunidawamoli Village, won the admiration of fellow yam farmers when she walked away with the Second Prize in the ‘Heaviest Yam Category’.

She has been looking after their farm since her husband is working.

“Planting yam is my passion and I use it at home during our meals instead of potatoes. My family loves yams,” she smiled.

She encourages women in Wailevu West and across Fiji to plant yam as it is a source of food and income security.

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