Dairy farming is not for the faint-hearted but for those who are willing to endure early hours, unpredictable weather, and the physical demands of working with animals. It requires a strong work ethic and a commitment to rigorous daily routines, as dairy farmers often rise before dawn to tend to their herds and start milking.

The early hours are just the beginning of the day’s challenges. Farmers must be prepared to face a variety of conditions — sometimes working in the rain, in the heat of the sun, or even in the cold, which can take a toll both physically and mentally. The demands of milking cows twice a day, ensuring their health and nutrition, and managing their living environments can be intense.

Moreover, dairy farmers must also contend with the business side of things. This includes managing finances, maintaining equipment, marketing their products, and navigating regulations related to animal welfare and food safety. The ability to adapt to changing market conditions and market preferences is crucial, especially in a world where competition can be fierce.

Yet, despite these hardships, many farmers like Mitieli Tikoduadua of Nukuloa Village in the Tikina of Lutu, Wainibuka in Naitasiri, find immense satisfaction in their work.

The rewards come not just from the product itself but from the connection to the land, the animals, and the community. The joy of seeing a healthy herd, the pride of producing quality milk, and the knowledge that their efforts contribute to family and community sustenance drive their passion.

The 61-year-old farmer was over the moon last week when his group - the Nukuloa Dairy Farmers Group was handed a brand new boat and engine to help them in carting their milk to the pickup point for transportation to the chilling centre.

In handing over the assistance, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable Vatimi Rayalu, said that the boat and engine are a small boost to support local dairy farmers like Mr. Tikoduadua.

He acknowledged the hard work and dedication of farmers in the region, emphasizing the importance of providing them with the necessary tools to enhance their operations and improve their livelihoods.

"This initiative is part of government's commitment to empowering the agricultural community. By providing essential equipment like boats and engines, we aim to facilitate better access to markets for dairy products, reduce transportation challenges, and ultimately increase the profitability of our farmers," said Hon. Rayalu.

He added that government recognizes the critical role that dairy farming plays in the local economy and food security.

"We understand the struggles that farmers face in their daily operations, and we are here to support them. This assistance is just one of many steps we are taking to uplift the agricultural sector and ensure that our farmers can thrive," he added.

Farmers in attendance expressed their gratitude for the support, noting that such initiatives can make a significant difference in their daily operations. Mr. Tikoduadua, in particular, shared how having access to a reliable boat and engine would ease the burden of transporting their milk to market, allowing them to focus more on their farming activities and less on logistical challenges.

“I was born and raised in a dairy farming household and this is all I have ever known. My success today is because of the passion that I have continued for dairy farming. My parents and grandparents faced so much hardships then. We all had to carry the milk cans filled with fresh milk for several miles before placing it on bamboo rafts to transport it to the nearest collection point. It was no easy task, but my family persevered through those tough times because we believed in the value of our hard work and the quality of our product," said Mr. Tikoduadua.

“Vinaka vakalevu to the Coalition Government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for believing in us and hearing our pleas. This will indeed boost our efforts and we vow to expand our dairy farming,” he added.

Hon. Rayalu reiterated the ministry’s commitment to working closely with the farming community to identify their needs and provide assistance that will lead to sustainable agricultural practices and a brighter future for farmers across the region.

"The boat and engine will also assist the villages and settlements in transporting students to and from school during heavy rain and floods. Together, we can ensure that communities thrive in all aspects of life and that access to education remains uninterrupted," added Hon. Rayalu.

Looking toward the future, Mr. Tikoduadua and the Nukuloa Dairy Farmers Group remain optimistic.

“Our hope is that the next generation will continue this legacy. We want them to explore new opportunities in dairy farming and understand the importance of innovation in agriculture. We believe that with passion and hard work, we can contribute to the economic development of our community and the nation.”

ENDS

• ← Go to all Press Releases