In the bid to strengthen the agricultural sector, the Wailevu/Waiqele Rice Farmers Cooperative in Labasa has received a new rice harvester under the Farm Mechanization Program of the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways.

Valued at $52,500.00, the harvester was provided under a one-third-two-thirds cost-sharing arrangement, where farmers contributed one-third of the cost, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways covering the remaining two-thirds.

This initiative directly supports the government’s priorities, which focus on agro-processing and value addition to locally produced primary agri-products.

By equipping farmers with modern machinery, the Ministry is ensuring that rice production is not only efficient but also economically viable, reducing reliance on imports and boosting local processing capabilities.

Agriculture, particularly rice farming, is a cornerstone of Fiji’s food security and economic development.

However, traditional farming methods have often limited efficiency, leading to low yields, high labor costs, and post-harvest losses.

The introduction of mechanized harvesters is part of a broader initiative to modernize rice production, ensuring farmers are equipped to process rice with higher efficiency and quality.

Agro-processing plays a critical role in transforming raw agricultural products into market-ready goods with higher value.

The Wailevu Waiqele Rice Farmers Cooperative, which was established in 2024, has taken bold steps toward this transformation. With a membership of 26 farmers from Tabucola, Qelewaqa, Wailevu, Nabekavu, Wailevu Tiri, Vatunidova, and Tikina Wailevu, the cooperative is working to revive rice cultivation and optimize processing techniques.

Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Honourable. Tomasi Tunabuna, during the official handing over, emphasized the importance of supporting rice farmers and agro-processing to ensure long-term sustainability and economic growth within the rice industry.

"Rice cultivation must be strengthened as Fiji heavily depends on rice imports for consumption. This dependency not only strains the economy but also limits opportunities for local farmers. By investing in agro-processing and mechanization, we are enabling farmers to maximize the value of their crops, reduce post-harvest losses, and create marketable, high-quality rice products," Hon. Tunabuna stated.

"I have full confidence that the cooperative will make excellent use of this harvester to enhance production efficiency, improve rice quality, reduce reliance on manual labour and strengthen Fiji’s agricultural sector," said Tunabuna.

Furthermore, by modernizing production techniques, the farmers can expand into value-added rice products creating new revenue streams for farmers and women.

The Vice President of the Wailevu Waiqele Rice Farmers Cooperative, Bas Deo, expressed gratitude for the government’s support, noting that the mechanization initiative will strengthen the cooperative’s ability to enhance production and processing.

"This harvester is a major boost for us, allowing greater efficiency in processing rice, improving quality control, and making our farming practices more cost-effective and sustainable," he said.

“With the government’s support through the two-thirds contribution, we can transform rice farming into a sustainable and profitable industry for our community," said Deo.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways remains committed to supporting farmers through mechanization, training, and infrastructure development.

This milestone reflects the government’s vision for a self-sufficient, resilient, and thriving agricultural sector, where local farmers are empowered with the resources needed to drive sustainable growth and long-term success.

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