Marking a pivotal step in rural development and agricultural transformation, the Bulavou Development Cooperative Limited received a tractor and implements under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Farm Mechanization Program.

The handover ceremony, held in Burebasaga village by the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways Honourable Inosi Kuridrani and also attended by the Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau, whose presence affirmed the government’s commitment to empowering grassroots communities through infrastructure and innovation.

The $45,000 investment shared on a 1/3 government and 2/3 cooperative basis marks a strategic step toward enhancing food security, improving land productivity, and fostering sustainable livelihoods in Rewa, a province renowned for its fertile wetlands and agricultural heritage.

The Bulavou Cooperative, comprising 100 members from the villages of Waivou, Burebasaga, Suvalailai, and Naivikasara, has demonstrated unity and foresight in embracing mechanization as a pathway to prosperity.

The tractor, equipped with essential implements, is expected to reduce labor stress, improve land preparation time, and encourage youth and women to engage in farming and value adding as a viable business.

Hon. Inosi Kuridrani commended the cooperative’s initiative.

“Bulavou Cooperative has shown what’s possible when communities work together with purpose,” he said.

“This tractor will lighten labour, accelerate land preparation, and open doors for youth and women to engage in farming as a business.”

The Farm Mechanization Program continues to support cooperatives across Fiji with tractors and implements, enabling farmers to transition from subsistence to commercial farming and agri-business.

The Ministry encourages other rural cooperatives to follow Bulavou’s example in leveraging government support for long-term transformation.

The Rokotunimatadreketi, Ratu Watisoni Vakalutukali, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the long-awaited support.

“This is a moment of deep gratitude and joy for our people, for too long, our farmers have worked with limited tools, and today we see the fruits of perseverance and unity.”

The event further underscored the government’s integrated approach to rural development, linking agricultural empowerment with infrastructure and transport services to ensure holistic progress in communities like Burebasaga.

ENDS

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