March 5, 2025
In line with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways commitment to empowering women in rural areas, the women of Nasau Village in Ra participated in a transformative training session on poultry farming at Nasau village today.
Facilitated by Agriculture Assistant Livestock (Dobuilevu), Mr. Iowane Roqouca, the training was designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills to establish and sustain successful poultry farming ventures, fostering greater self-reliance and community development.
“This training is not just about poultry farming; it’s about empowering women to take charge of their economic futures,” he said.
“When women gain practical skills like these, it creates a ripple effect that benefits their families and the entire community. It’s a privilege to see their eagerness to learn and grow.”
The session covered essential aspects of poultry farming, such as housing, feeding, disease prevention, and boosting productivity.
“They are equipped with valuable knowledge and renewed confidence, marking a significant step in their journey toward economic self-reliance and a powerful example of how empowering women through agriculture can create lasting, transformative change for families and communities alike,” he said.
Participants learned practical techniques to help them manage their farms efficiently. This initiative holds special significance for the women of Nasau Village, as high poultry costs in local shops and the village’s distance from town have created challenges for accessing fresh and affordable chicken.
Woman participant Vatiri Tabuatolu echoed this sentiment, expressing their gratitude and optimism for the opportunities the training provides.
"This program is life-changing for us, it means we’ll be able to provide fresh, healthy chicken for our families, without relying on expensive products from town. We’re already imagining how we can work together to expand these efforts," she said.
“We are grateful for this opportunity, this is the first time we are learning this, it is not just about farming chickens—it’s about realizing our own potential and contributing to the well-being of our village and children in terms of eggs and meat-bird.”
“We will not only learn new technical skills but also a stronger network of support within their community,” said Vatiri.
This initiative aligns with the ministry's goals of promoting sustainable agricultural practices and fostering equal opportunities for all Fijians. By empowering women to take on ventures like poultry farming, it contributes to long-term economic resilience, food security, and community-driven growth.
ENDS