It was indeed a long time coming for thirty farmers in the Narara Sub-division in Navua after they finally received a brand new Solis Tractor yesterday afternoon.

The group of second generation farmers are grateful to the Coalition Government, especially the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, for their commitment to elevating agriculture in Fiji through their assistance programs.

President of the Lagilagi (Narara) Cooperative Limited, Samuela Gucake spoke on behalf of the members and said that their efforts to own a machine started from way back when their fathers were still toiling the land as farmers.

“It has been a struggle over the years and we have watched our parents work hard on the farms to put us through school and even tertiary institutes. Their efforts will not go in vain, so we tried our best to get the assistance through the Ministry’s Farm Mechanisation Program,” explained Mr. Gucake.

In his handing over speech, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu said that it is important for the cooperative members to stay united.

“This tractor is given to you to assist in your overall efforts especially in lifting your farm production. You will spend less time in land preparation and all the additional costs of hiring tractors will be a thing of the past now,” said Hon. Rayalu.

“I encourage you to work together, look out for one another and most importantly work hard on your farms to ensure that you elevate your farming status and create better livelihoods for you and your families,” advised Hon. Rayalu.

“The emphasis on unity is also crucial, as it helps prevent internal conflicts that could weaken the group's overall effectiveness.”

The Lagilagi Narara Cooperative Limited was established early this year following a vision that was set by Mr. Gucake’s late father, Qoriniasi Gucake, a former agriculture staff who passed away in 2020.

“My late father and other farmers who have passed away, played significant roles in keeping the farms operating. The Lagilagi Cooperative is truly indebted to them for their sacrifices and we will towards carrying on the legacy,” added Mr. Gucake.

Together, the members are utilizing 55 acres of arable flatland and plant an assortment of root crops including varieties of dalo like Uro ni Vonu, Jabeni, Maleka Dina, and Tausala as well as cassava, kumala and assorted vegetables.

They have been practicing phase planting and currently have 52,000 dalo ranging from one month to 8 months old.

They will continue working with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways to incorporate a wide range of crops that are highly adaptable in the natural conditions of the area.

The Lagilagi Cooperative's priority, is to ensure that members have abundant supply of healthy and nutritious food for their families and making use of available land to generate income for them.

Meanwhile, the Ministry is encouraging and pushing for a more collaborative approach among farmers in Fiji. By forming cooperatives, farmers can pool resources, share knowledge, and negotiate more effectively for assistance and support.

Farmers are encouraged to visit the nearest agriculture station for more information and advice.

ENDS

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