Picture From L-R : AMA CEO Mr.Alvin Sharma ,Turaga na Tui Nubu Ratu Manoa Naleba, Hon. Rear Admiral (Retired)  Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama and Minister for Agriculture Hon.Dr.Mahendra Reddy

68 contract farmers have been assured that the Agricultural Marketing Authority will buy their crops from Nadarivatu, relieving them of the worry regarding market access.

 These farmers have signed contractual agreements with the Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) and have committed 125 acres of their mataqali land to be used for the planting of dalo, celery, and carrots.

 This was highlighted by the Minister for Agriculture Hon. Dr. Mahendra Reddy during a talanoa session at Nadarivatu village yesterday following the launching of Nubu Farm by Prime Minister Hon. Voreqe Bainimarama.

 Minister Reddy elaborated the climatic conditions of Nadarivatu was good for carrots and celery, highlighting the need for import substitution.

 While responding to the farmers’ queries on planting material, farm roads, land preparation, and machinery provided by the Agriculture Ministry, Minister Reddy said the necessary impetus for development would be provided through several avenues.

 “The Ministry will provide planting material at no cost to the farmer for the amount they require; we will need advanced notice to organize the planting material and we will provide this progressively. The only requirement is the farmer will have to replenish us the equivalent amount of planting material within three years. We will also assist with land preparation and machinery,” Minister Reddy said.

 “All contract farmers will be eligible to become Fiji National Provident Fund members and AMA will facilitate deductions in consultations with farmers and FNPF.

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