The inaugural fruit tree orchard in the country was recently launched at Volivoli Village in Sigatoka by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with the Taiwan Technical Mission (TTM).  

The launch of the first fruit tree orchard is part of the recently announced Establishment of Fruit Tree Orchard initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture. 

While officiating at the launch of the fruit tree orchard, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture Development Jone Sovalawa said the program was one of the five new initiatives the Ministry would undertake to further enhance the development of the sector. 

“The non-sugar agricultural sector in Fiji continues to grow over the years and with it comes demands to further develop the sector.

“New strategies need to be implemented that will ensure increased production to meet market demands and among other things, reduce our dependency on imported products," he said.

The need to develop Fiji's fruit industry was also emphasized to farmers, as the inclusion of locally grown fruits in daily diets was important for food and nutrition. 

“Most fruits are only available in season and in limited number because it is not farmed but rather wildly grown, it is in this regard that there is a need for the establishment of fruit orchards in a systematic and proper manner in demarcated areas,” he said.

“The new program will ensure establishment of organized orchards of selected fruits in strategic locations to make fruits readily available to locals as well as well as to our ever-growing tourism industry,” he added.

Guava trees were planted during the launch as guavas had been identified as a 'Super Fruit' due to its high nutrient content and its ability to address non-communicable diseases. 

“Having a Guava Orchard will not only boost the income of the farmer in improving their livelihood but will ensure that we curb the impacts of NCD’s in our local communities,” said Mr. Sovalawa.

Under the new Fruit Tree Orchard initiative, the Ministry of Agriculture will be establishing fruit orchards for Guava, Passionfruit, Chestnut and Mangoes.

“This year we have a target to establish 5 farms each for Guava, Dragonfruit, Avocado and Breadfruit and farmers who are interested to be a part of this initiative can register their interest with Agriculture Offices in various districts,” he said.

The five initiatives of the Ministry includes the Establishment of Fruit Tree Orchards, the Upscaling of Pulses Seed Production, Backyard Gardening, Optimizing the use of Juncao Grass to enhance Livestock Production and Young Farmers Business Incubation Scheme, all of which are part of the long term vision of the Minister for Agriculture, Rural and Maritime Development, Waterways and Environment Hon. Dr. Mahendra Reddy.

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