The Tosovata Cluster Farming Group in the village of Nauluvatu in Nakelo, Tailevu were all smiles yesterday as months of hard work finally paid off when they harvested a plot of the Uro ni Vonu variety of dalo.

Speaking at the official harvesting ceremony yesterday in Nakelo, Director for Waterways, Mr. Marau Vuli said that he was honoured to officiate the harvesting of the Uro ni Vonu plot under the Climate Smart Agriculture initiative.

“I must commend the Tosovata Cluster Group for their dedication and hard work and of course their commitment to sustainable agricultural practices. Your efforts in embracing the intuitive not only contributes to the productivity of our unutilized Mataqali lands, but it also paves the way for a more resilient future in the face of climate change challenges,” added Mr. Vuli.

“I must also thank the Vanua and the church for supporting your youths to realise that the ‘solesolevaki’ (communal or cluster work) concept is still an important tool to such development.”

“Your harvest is more than just a collection of crops, but a testament to innovation, collaboration and the unwavering spirit of our farming communities. The Uro ni Vonu plot symbolizes our collective effort to harness the best agricultural practices that not only protect our environment but also ensure food security and sustainable livelihoods for generations to come,” stressed Mr. Vuli.

Under the Climate Smart Agriculture initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways has witnessed how integrating modern technologies with traditional wisdom can yield remarkable results.

By optimizing water use efficiency, promoting soil health and adopting climate-resilient crop varieties, farmers will not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also enhance the productivity and profitability of their farms.

“As we celebrate this harvest, let us also reflect on the importance of collaboration and partnership. The success of the Uro ni Vonu plot would not have been possible without the support of various stakeholders which includes government agencies, Non-Government Organisations, research institutions, and most importantly, you the people,” added Mr. Vuli.

Secretary of the Tosovata Cluster Farming Group, Filipe Tiko thanked the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for the huge assistance in terms of land preparation works, supply of Uro ni Vonu suckers as well as additional implements.

“We paid half of the costs for land preparation works and the ministry paid the other half. It was a huge relief for the 45 members of our cluster,” said Mr. Tiko.

“The 45 members all represent the seven Mataqali (clan) in the Yavusa (Tribe) of Nakelo and we all have our farming plots that all operate under the cluster. Every Wednesday and Thursdays is dedicated to cluster farming activities and we are grateful to be partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways in promoting the Climate Smart Agriculture initiative,” explained Mr. Tiko.

They hope to continue to promote farming as a permanent source of income and livelihood for the members and landowners especially the upcoming generation.

“We will continue working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways in expanding our farming activities as well as other key stakeholders to assist the villagers in income generating programs that will enable us to alleviate poverty in our village,” added Mr. Tiko.

The Tosovata Cluster aim to register their group as a farming cooperative and hope to expand their farming activities to fully utilise 100 acres of unused land.

Members of the public are advised to visit your nearest agriculture station for more information on the Climate Smart Agriculture initiative. 

ENDS

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