THE Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways successfully completed the Nadroga, Navosa Floriculture training program last week at the My Nursery in Olosara, Sigatoka.
The training was a key part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable farming practices and empower women in agriculture, fostering economic development and gender equality in the sector.
Funded by the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways and facilitated by Moreen Sainaz Khan of My Nursery and Emili Uluimalolo, both prominent figures in the Nadroga floriculture community, the two-day training session saw the participation of 25 female and two male farmers, who were eager to enhance their knowledge and skills in floriculture.
Senior agriculture officer (Nadroga/Navosa) Ilisoni Banuve said the primary objective of the training was to empower women in agriculture from Nadroga and Navosa by providing them with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in floriculture.
“This training program is a testament to our commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture and empowering women in the agricultural sector,” he said.
“By providing female farmers with the necessary skills and knowledge, we aim to empower more people through innovation, economic independence, and leadership.
“The training will not only enhance their skills but also provide them with opportunities to earn money for their families, improving their overall well-being, boosting confidence and capabilities in floriculture.”
Mr Banuve urged participants to make use of available land and take advantage of government assistance programs.
The training focused on teaching participants how to manage a floriculture nursery, the cultivation and care of anthuriums and orchids, gaining hands-on experience in raising flowers, flower arrangement techniques, creating floral arrangements and essential skill for adding value to floriculture products.
NOTE: This article was first published in the print edition of the Fiji Times dated FEBRUARY 22, 2025.
