Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Fiji

SERVING FARMERS IN BEQA

Last week, the Central Team of the Ministry of Agriculture braved the unpredictable seas to reach Beqa Island, determined to deliver dalo and yaqona training to farmers from the districts of Sawau and Raviravi.

The trainings were held at Nawaisomo and Dakuni villages, where farmers gathered to learn new skills and strengthen their agricultural practices.

The crossing was not easy, as the absence of road access means fibre glass boats remain the sole means of transportation to villages and towns and other places where they sell their produce, visit family, and access essential services.

While poor reception continues to hinder communication, the rising fuel price and other challenges, the people of Beqa continue to thrive and the Ministry continues to ensure that services reach them.

Upon arrival, the triumph was clear, farmers not only welcomed the training but also proved to be gracious hosts.

The richness of the land and the abundance of the surrounding sea continue to sustain the nine villages on Beqa.

The training sessions focused on improving dalo and yaqona cultivation, crops that are central to Fiji’s agricultural identity and economic strength and are mostly cultivated on the island.

Farmers were eager to learn new techniques that would help them adapt to changing conditions, increase yields, and maintain the quality of their produce.

The Ministry’s officers, by joining farmers show that service delivery is not hindered by hardship it is strengthened by it with the Ministry standing shoulder to shoulder with the people it serves.

Senior Agriculture Officer (Rewa) Apen*sa Rarasea, who accompanied the team said, “Be it crossing the high seas, climbing mountains, wading through rivers, travelling by vehicle, walking on foot or journeying by fibre boat or ferry, the responsibility remains the same and that is to deliver services to our farmers,” he said.

“It is part of our responsibility as Agriculture Officers, no matter the obstacles, we must go out and serve our farmers as they are the backbone of our nation’s food systems,” said SAO.

“Beqa is part of Rewa and it is our duty to ensure that farmers on the island receive the same support and opportunities as those on the mainland.”

Agriculture Assistant (Rewa) Luisa Marama, who is the designated staff looking after farmers of Beqa, added her perspective.

“Working closely with the farmers of Beqa, I see their daily challenges but also their strength, they remain committed to their land and crops and it is my role to walk alongside them, to provide knowledge and encouragement, so they know the Ministry is with them and despite the challenges, I love serving them.”

In the face of rising fuel costs, limited connectivity, and the daily struggles of island farming, the Ministry urges women, youth, and all farmers to make full use of its assistance so that together they can overcome challenges and build resilient livelihood.

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HORIZON 2030 FOOD SYSTEMS PATHWAY

Cabinet has approved Horizon 2030 – Fiji’s Pathway to a Safe, Resilient, Innovative Food System as the national framework that will guide the transformation of Fiji’s food systems from 2025 to 2030.

The Pathway sets out a clear roadmap to strengthen food security, improve nutrition, build climate resilience, increase agricultural productivity and create more value-adding opportunities across the food sector. It also aims to support sustainable and inclusive economic growth while ensuring Fiji is better prepared to meet future food challenges.

A key focus of the framework is empowering farmers, women, youth and rural communities by improving access to innovation, markets and climate-smart farming practices. This will help strengthen local food production, create economic opportunities and support more resilient communities.

Aligned with Fiji’s national development priorities and international commitments on sustainable development and climate action, the Pathway will help deliver long-term improvements in food security, public health, environmental sustainability and economic resilience for all Fijians.

PC: Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry

FIJI REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO REGIONAL PLANT HEALTH AND BIOSECURITY AT PPPO TECHNICAL BOARD MEETING

The Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, today officially opened the Pacific Plant Protection Organisation (PPPO) 11th Regional Technical Board Meeting in Nadi, reaffirming Fiji's commitment to strengthening regional plant health systems, biosecurity cooperation, and sustainable agricultural development across the Pacific.

Welcoming delegates from Pacific Island countries and territories, development partners, and regional organisations, Hon. Tunabuna highlighted the critical role that plant health plays in supporting food security, livelihoods, trade, environmental sustainability, and economic resilience throughout the region.

“Plant health is fundamental to the prosperity and resilience of Pacific Island countries. Agriculture supports our communities, economies, and cultures, while our biodiversity and ecosystems remain essential to our future development,” he said.

The Minister noted that Pacific nations continue to face increasing threats from invasive pests, emerging plant diseases, climate change, natural disasters, and the growing movement of people and goods across borders.

“Biosecurity is no longer simply a technical issue. It is directly linked to economic resilience, environmental sustainability, trade competitiveness, and national security,” he said.

He acknowledged the significant impacts of biosecurity threats already experienced across the region, including invasive ants, fruit flies, Fall Armyworm, plant viruses, and other emerging pests that continue to affect agricultural production and trade.

He emphasised the importance of strong national biosecurity systems supported by effective regional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and harmonised phytosanitary measures.

The Minister also welcomed discussions aimed at aligning PPPO priorities with Growing the Pacific: The 2050 Strategy for Agriculture and Forestry and the broader 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent, recognising plant health and biosecurity as essential pillars of sustainable development and food systems resilience.

“For Fiji, biosecurity remains a key national priority, with continued investment in surveillance systems, emergency preparedness, diagnostic capabilities, border management, market access pathways, and regional cooperation initiatives.”

“Plant health is everyone’s responsibility. Healthy plants are the foundation of food security, sustainable trade, livelihoods, and resilient communities,” he stated.

Hon. Tunabuna further acknowledged the leadership of the PPPO Board, Executive Committee, SPC Land Resources Division, and member countries for their continued dedication to advancing plant protection efforts throughout the Pacific.

He also recognised the valuable support provided by development partners, including Australia, New Zealand, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP), and other collaborating agencies in strengthening regional biosecurity preparedness and capability.

The three-day meeting will provide an opportunity for Pacific plant protection leaders and technical experts to review progress, discuss emerging challenges, and set strategic priorities for the next phase of regional cooperation.

Hon. Tunabuna encouraged delegates to strengthen partnerships, share practical experiences, and develop meaningful outcomes that will contribute to safeguarding Pacific agriculture, biodiversity, trade, and food security for future generations.

The PPPO Regional Technical Board Meeting is convened every three years and serves as the principal regional forum for advancing plant protection and biosecurity cooperation across the Pacific.

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HARVEST OF HOPE IN VANUA LEVU

In Valelawa, Dreketi, 29-year-old Mohammed Afzaal Iqbal has built a life that is both practical and inspiring.

His journey is about resilience, innovation and the quiet determination to turn challenges into opportunities.

Although he comes from a family of farmers, Iqbal's path into commercial agriculture was not immediate.

After completing Form 7 in 2015, his family encouraged him to seek employment elsewhere, believing it would provide a more secure future. He worked in Nadi and later in Suva before realising that the opportunities available on his family's land were greater than those he could find away from home.

In 2018, he returned to Dreketi with a vision to build a future through farming. Borrowing a friend's tractor to prepare a field, he planted his first commercial watermelon crop.

Just two and a half months later, he harvested and sold more than $10,000 worth of watermelons. That success became the turning point that convinced both him and his family that farming could provide a prosperous and sustainable livelihood.

Coming from a family of farmers, Iqbal credits much of his inspiration to his father, grandfather and grandmother, who taught him the fundamentals of planting and crop management from a young age.

“My family has always been involved in farming,” he explains.

“For me, growing commercially is simple, if you plant big, you will earn big.”

While his father and grandfather farmed before him, Iqbal introduced a more commercial approach, reinvesting profits into machinery, infrastructure and farm expansion to increase productivity and returns.

Beyond the knowledge passed down through his family, Iqbal has relied heavily on online research to improve his farming practices. Through internet resources and agricultural videos, he learned about chemical application, spraying techniques, side-dressing methods, fertiliser management, crop nutrition, and pest and disease control.

“The internet has been a great companion throughout my farming journey,” he says.

By combining traditional knowledge with modern technology, he has been able to improve productivity and make informed decisions on the farm.

For Iqbal, farming is a source of peace, joy and strength. He speaks with warmth about the blooming of vegetable flowers and the earthy smell of soil after rain.

“Whenever I have tensions in my life, I go to my farm and after seeing my crops smiling at me, it really relaxes me and gives me peace,” he says.

He admits that when life feels heavy, there is healing in the work of our hands and in the beauty of nature.

He farms watermelon, cucumber, long beans, eggplant, pumpkins, maize and other seasonal crops, including cassava, depending on market demand and growing conditions. These crops are chosen not only for their profitability but also for their contribution to feeding households across Fiji.

Watermelons are sold directly to buyers who regularly travel from Suva to purchase his produce, while cucumbers go to Extra Supermarket and local stalls. Other vegetables reach community markets and customers throughout the region.

“Different crops have different markets,” he says proudly.

His work ensures that families have food on their tables, and his success proves that farming can be both sustainable and rewarding.

The journey, however, is not without obstacles.

Weather remains the greatest challenge, unpredictable and often unforgiving.

“The biggest challenge I face on my farm is weather and in large-scale farming, we can’t do much, all is in God’s hand,” he admits.

“If I fail one time, I never step back and instead, I keep on trying and I’m sure I’ll be successful over time.”

His words carry a lesson for anyone facing setbacks: failure is not the end, but the beginning of persistence.

His success also transformed his family's outlook on agriculture. Initially, his parents encouraged him to seek employment away from home, believing farming involved hard work with limited returns. However, after seeing the success of his first watermelon crop, their perspective changed completely.

His late father became one of his strongest supporters and encouraged him to continue farming. Iqbal believes many parents still hold outdated perceptions about agriculture, but his own experience shows that modern farming can provide stable incomes, employment opportunities and rewarding careers for young people.

Farming has already transformed his life. Through the income earned from his crops, he has rebuilt his home, purchased a vehicle and invested in a tractor, all while continuing to support his family and community.

“Right at the moment, I’m rebuilding my house and able to look after my family’s welfare,” he says.

“I have bought a car and a tractor, all from farm money and I always help my community when they are in need.”

His success is proof that prosperity is most meaningful when it is shared.

Iqbal's dedication was formally recognised when he won the Young Crop Farmer of the Year Award during the 2025 National Agriculture Show in Nadi.

Looking ahead, he dreams of expanding his farm through hydroponic production systems and establishing a large nursery to supply quality seedlings and planting materials to other farmers.

“Vegetable farming in Fiji offers a vital pathway to food security, lower living costs and sustainable income for local communities,” he says.

For Iqbal, the farm in Valelawa is more than a business—it is a sanctuary.

“I really love when I see my farm full of green vegetables and the flowers blooming and fruiting and the smell of the soil is peaceful,” he says softly.

His story is a reminder that farming is about more than harvests. It is about hope, innovation, perseverance and the future of families and communities. By blending traditional knowledge inherited from his elders with modern farming techniques learned through research and technology, Iqbal represents a new generation of farmers helping shape the future of agriculture in Fiji.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has introduced numerous programmes aimed at improving farmers' livelihoods, with the expectation that more young men and women will be inspired to pursue opportunities in agriculture, adopt modern farming practices, and play an active role in advancing sustainable agricultural development in Fiji.

The Ministry encourages more young men and women to visit their nearest Agriculture Station and speak with officers on the ground to learn about the assistance, training opportunities and development programmes available to support their entry into the agriculture sector.

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EMPOWERING DAIRY FARMERS THROUGH NUTRITION AND FODDER MANAGEMENT TRAINING

| Nutrition remains a key priority in livestock production, ensuring livestock receive the quality and quantity of feed required for optimum health and productivity.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry’s Animal Health and Production Division recently conducted successful Dairy Nutrition Field Days in Viria and Serea, Naitasiri, aimed at strengthening the resilience and sustainability of Fiji’s dairy sector.

The program highlighted the importance of establishing fodder banks to address feed shortages and nutritional gaps, particularly during periods of rising feed costs and supply challenges.

Senior Agriculture Officer, Satye Raj, emphasized the value of Juncao as a high-quality fodder species due to its high protein content, adaptability to local conditions, rapid growth, and high yield potential.

He further highlighted that achieving optimum performance from Juncao depends on proper husbandry and management practices, including land preparation, planting, maintenance, and harvesting.

The demonstration conducted by Fiji Cooperative Dairy Company Ltd (FCDCL) also included the silage-making process to ensure farmers can prepare and preserve silage for future use.

The Ministry also highlighted the technical support provided by the Government of the Republic of Korea, including specialized equipment for establishing, harvesting, and preserving fodder through silage and baling technologies. Farmers received practical, hands-on demonstrations of recommended fodder establishment and management techniques.

The initiative forms part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to improve livestock nutrition, reduce dependence on imported feed sources, and enhance the productivity and profitability of dairy farming in Fiji.

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DID YOU KNOW?

New Zealand's squash market is growing fast, and it can't get enough supply. Total imports of fresh and chilled squash jumped over 60% between 2022 and 2023, reaching 900,808 kg, driven by rising demand for healthy, plant-based foods. Tonga emerged as the standout Pacific performer, more than doubling its export value from NZD 326,147 to NZD 826,383 in a single year.

But perhaps the most telling insight came directly from New Zealand importers: they currently bring in around 50 tonnes of squash during the October/November peak season and have the capacity to take 100 tonnes, if the supply were available. That's a gap no one is filling.

For Pacific Island exporters who can deliver consistent volumes and meet biosecurity requirements, squash isn't just a vegetable; it's an open door into one of New Zealand's fastest-growing fresh produce categories.

Read the market insights for squash on the PTI website.https://pacifictradeinvest.com/media/kkvfe3dv/market-insight-full-report-squash-apr-2026-_converted.pdf

MINISTRY CHARTS NEW PATH FOR BEQA FARMERS

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has outlined a comprehensive strategy to transform Beqa’s farming sector from subsistence production to high-value commercial agriculture.

This initiative is designed to harness the island’s unique strengths while ensuring food security, market competitiveness, and improved livelihoods for farming households.

The Ministry’s targeted strategies include:Off-Season Tomato Production: Leveraging Beqa’s distinctive microclimate to supply tomatoes during mainland shortages, supported by technical programs that enhance consistency and create youth employment.

Kava Dieback Management: Introducing improved planting supplies and disease-control techniques to restore yaqona yields.

Commercial Dalo Cultivation: Strengthening farmer skills in land preparation, sucker selection, and pest control to boost productivity.

Strengthened Value Chains: Meeting market quality standards to secure better prices in both local and export markets.

Senior Agriculture Officer (Rewa) Apen*sa Rarasea underscored the Ministry’s vision.

“The Ministry is committed to guiding Beqa farmers toward commercial agriculture and by focusing on crops like tomatoes, dalo, and yaqona, we are ensuring that farmers can move beyond subsistence and contribute meaningfully to Fiji’s agricultural economy.”

Principal Agriculture Officer (Central) Adriano Tabualevu emphasized the Ministry’s support systems.

“Our role is to provide farmers with the skills, planting materials, and market knowledge they need," he said.

"By strengthening value chains and ensuring quality standards, Beqa will not only safeguard livelihoods but also position itself as a key contributor to national food security and export growth.”

The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to continuous training, extension services, and improved planting material distribution, ensuring that Beqa’s farmers remain resilient, competitive and aligned with Fiji’s broader agricultural development goals.

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FAREWELL AND BEST WISHES TO OUR RETIRING COLLEAGUES

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry today bid farewell to two dedicated and long-serving officers from the Human Resources Development and Services Division (HRDS), Mr. Amani Bola Ratatagia, retired as a Driver, and Mr. Basilio Ravuyawa, retired as a Clerical Officer. Together, they dedicated decades of service to the Ministry and the Government of Fiji, leaving behind a legacy of commitment, professionalism and loyalty.

Speaking at the farewell gathering, Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Dr. Andrew Tukana, acknowledged the invaluable service of both retirees and thanked them for their years of dedication, professionalism and hard work.

Mr. Amani Bola Ratatagia, from Visama Village, Nakelo, Tailevu, joined the Civil Service in the 1990s with the Office of the Prime Minister before joining the Ministry in 1997. Throughout his career, he served in various divisions within the Ministry, including the Animal Health and Production Division, Waterways Division, and the Land Resources Planning and Development Division. He also served with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services during the COVID-19 pandemic. His loyalty and commitment to public service have left a lasting impact on the Ministry.

Mr. Basilio Ravuyawa, from Nalalawa Village, Nalawa, Ra, joined the Civil Service in 1993 and served in numerous roles and locations across Fiji, including the Fisheries Division, Accounts Section, Land and Water Resources Management Division (now the Waterways Division), and the Extension and Research Divisions. Following the Government's decision to transfer the Fiji College of Agriculture to Fiji National University (FNU), Basilio joined FNU in 2010. In 2012, he rejoined the Ministry and continued to contribute his knowledge and experience until his retirement.

On behalf of the Ministry, Dr Tukana extended his heartfelt appreciation to both officers for their many years of dedicated service. Their contributions have helped shape and strengthen the Ministry, and their legacy will be remembered by colleagues and communities alike.

Dr Tukana also expressed his sincere gratitude to the families of both retirees for their unwavering support and understanding throughout their years of service. He acknowledged the important role their families played in enabling them to serve the Ministry and the Government of Fiji with dedication and commitment over the decades.

We wish Mr. Ratatagia and Mr. Ravuyawa good health, happiness and success as they begin this new chapter of their lives.

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GOVERNMENT ASSURES GUARANTEED SUGARCANE PRICE OF $85.00 PER TONNE IN THE 2026 CROP SEASON

In consideration of the recent increases in fuel prices and sugarcane harvesting and transportation costs, the Government assures all sugarcane farmers that they will be paid $85.00 per tonne in the 2026 crop season.

In accordance with the Master Award, the Sugar Industry Tribunal has recently announced the forecast price of $57.40 per tonne for the 2026 crop season. The forecast price was calculated on the world market price for raw sugar.

The Government understands the growing challenges of the sugarcane farmers in meeting the increasing harvesting and transportation costs and agrees that $57.40 per tonne is inadequate to meet the delivery payments. In light of this, the Government agreed to pay a guaranteed price of $85.00 per tonne in the 2026 season. The $85.00 per tonne will include the Government top-up and the forecasted price of $57.40 per tonne.

While the sugarcane payment is guaranteed, the Government is emphasizing the continuous decline in sugarcane production despite substantial grants and subsidies provided to sugarcane farmers, including cane planting grants, fertiliser and weedicide subsidies, manual harvesting payments, farmer incentives, cane access road, lease renewals and recent Government top-up payments of over $36.0 million for the 2025 crop season.

With such huge investments in the sugarcane sector, the Government is calling for stronger commitments from all stakeholders, including the sugar mill, cane cutters, lorry operators, landowners and sugarcane farmers. The Government advises that external shocks, such as fuel and fertiliser input price hikes, are beyond our control.

Therefore, farmers are strongly advised to diversify sugarcane farming into other crops and livestock to improve their household income, ensure food security and reduce vulnerabilities against such shocks.

The Government remains committed to the sugarcane sector and hereby requests all stakeholders to work together and prepare for the 2026 cane crushing season scheduled to start on 9th June 2026.

The Government wishes for a successful 2026 crop season.

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WOMEN IN AGRICULTURE SUPPORT DAKUNI FLORICULTURE

The Dakuni Women’s Group in Beqa, under the leadership of Adi Sala Vibote, is making steady progress in floriculture with the help of the 2024/2025 Financial Year assistance provided through the Women in Agriculture program.

For the past three years, the group has been dedicated to cultivating anthurium pot plants, experimenting with practical methods such as layering styrofoam and soil to encourage healthy growth.

With 20 active members out of a total of 40, the group has successfully nurtured 20 anthurium plants inside their assisted greenhouse.

Adi Sala, who has a deep love for flowers, has been the guiding force behind this initiative.

She is always happy to care for the plants and her passion motivates the women in her group to continue learning and improving their floriculture practices.

The Ministry of Agriculture’s support has enabled the Dakuni Women’s Group to maintain their greenhouse operations, experiment with other plants and strengthening women’s participation in agriculture and opening opportunities.

This initiative highlights the role of women-led agricultural projects in rural communities, where dedication and innovation turn assistance into achievement.

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