There is an increase in the number of farmers in the country with 15,598 more joining the industry — bringing the total number to 98,993.
This was highlighted by the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka during the World Food Day and the National Agriculture Show held at the Vodafone Arena last week.
The National Agriculture Show’s theme was “Resilient, Sustainable and Productive”.
Mr Rabuka said that the increase in number of farmers was a testament to the growing importance of agriculture in the lives of the Fijian people.
He said increased agricultural productivity can enhance food security, reduce poverty, create green jobs and foster economic growth.
“This event is a testament to our commitment to modernising the agricultural sector and public-private partnerships are key to this effort,” he said.
“We need investments in mechanisation, climate-smart technologies, processing facilities and agri-food logistics while smaller investments will support farmers and agriculture-based micro, small and medium enterprises.”
He said Fiji’s agriculture sector – a backbone of Fiji’s economy, involves approximately 35 per cent of Fiji’s population, supporting their food and livelihood needs.
“In 2021, it accounted for 9.1 per cent of our GDP, with a 1.0 per cent growth during the year, led by top export commodities like kava, turmeric, taro, ginger, cassava, meat of chicken and other vegetables,” he said.
“Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic and tropical cyclones, Fiji has recorded continuous export growth in fresh/chilled commodities.
“We have seen continuous export growth in fresh and chilled commodities, despite the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He said in 2022 the value of fresh and chilled exports increased by 4.9 per cent, contributing significantly to our national earnings.
“We are dedicated to supporting agricultural development and transitioning smallholder farmers to commercial levels,” he said.
“We continue to witness an increase in the number of farmers, showing the growing importance of agriculture in our people’s lives.”
He said the Ministry is dedicated to supporting farmers.
The agriculture show not only welcomed farmers from around the country to showcase their produce, it also welcomed future farmers to learn about the trade.
The show had students visiting booths and stalls that promoted the agriculture industry and the type of skills and advantages acquired from farming.
The show was from October 25 to October 27.
