The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways today hosted a successful Small Ruminant Field Day at the Batiri Research Station, bringing together over 70 goat and sheep farmers from across the Northern Division.

The event was officially opened by the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, the Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna, who underscored the strategic importance of livestock development in achieving food security, rural empowerment, and import reduction.

In delivering his keynote address, the Assistant Minister reinforced the vital contribution of small ruminants to Fiji’s economy, culture, and rural wellbeing.

“It is with great honour that I inaugurate this vital Farmer Training Programme, which emphasizes husbandry and management practices for small ruminants, particularly sheep and goats here at the Batiri Sheep Station,” he said.

He added that small ruminants are not only efficient and adaptable to Fiji’s varied terrain, but also deeply woven into traditional ceremonies and rural life.

“Small ruminants like goats and sheep are more than just livestock, they are the backbone of Fiji’s rural economy, the anchors of tradition, and a reliable source of nutrition and income for our communities.”

Currently, over 150,000 goats and 40,000 sheep are raised across the country. However, in 2024 alone, Fiji imported approximately 8,642 metric tons of sheep meat and 378 metric tons of goat meat at $82.6 million.

“With rising interest from farmers and growing demand for locally produced meat, now is the time to empower our farmers with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships they need to meet that demand sustainably.”

Participants received expert guidance on feed management, disease prevention, breeding strategies, and business development.

The Field Day served as a practical follow-up to the 2024 Livestock Sector Strategies Forum, emphasizing the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening value chains and fostering local solutions.

“Today is not about showcasing, it’s about empowering. I urge all our farmers to engage, learn, and lead. Your success is not only personal, it’s national.”

In closing, the Assistant Minister called on stakeholders across the agricultural sector to continue investing in research and innovation.

“Let us continue to invest in research, embrace new methods, and build a thriving livestock sector, one that benefits not just individual farmers, but the nation as a whole.”

The event concluded with renewed optimism among participants, reaffirming the Ministry’s mission to position livestock, particularly small ruminants for resilient farming systems and rural transformation.

ENDS

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