The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways will continue to recognize the contribution of women in the agriculture sector as they represent 14 percent of the farmers in the country.

This was highlighted by the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna while officiating at the Nasinu Festival in Valelevu today.

He said the government recognizes the importance of gender equality and women’s empowerment in Fiji and is committed to implementing policies and frameworks such as the National Action Plans (NAPs), Strategic Development Plans (SDPs), and Gender in Agriculture Policy, which focus on empowering women and girls.

Currently, there are 12,084 women farmers registered in the National Farmers Database, which is an increase of 113 women farmers from 11,971 recorded in 2020.

“According to the 2020 Fiji Agriculture Census Report, women farmers contributed $57.9 million to total agricultural production value,” said Hon. Tunabuna.

The Government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, has a Women in Agriculture capital budget allocation of $300,000 for the 2024-2025 financial year.

He said the primary objective of the Women in Agriculture development program is to enhance the lives of women and support the socio-economic development of their communities by utilizing the Cottage Industry as a key source of income.

“The budgetary activities encompass the purchasing of voivoi, masi and materials for flower planting, the establishment of drying facilities for voivoi and masi, the development of a floriculture nursery, the celebration of Women in Agriculture Day and the oversight of the Women in Agriculture development program.”

In addition, he said the Government also recognizes the empowerment of our youths through the Youth in Agriculture Policy, which is a beacon that guides the paths of young farmers and agri entrepreneurs.

“This policy launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways recognizes the critical role that young farmers play in modernizing the agricultural sector,” said Hon. Tunabuna.

He said the Ministry has capital projects and training programs to involve the youths effectively in various economic opportunities.

“For agriculture to grow, we need a new set of young, energized and competent farmers in our rural communities or rural settings.”

Hon. Tunabuna urges the youths to forge new partnerships, exchange achievable innovative ideas, learn from one another and translate their commitments into tangible actions to create a future where they do not leave vulnerable communities behind.

Ends

• ← Go to all Press Releases