Yaqona is a key commodity for young farmers in Fiji, states a new report released by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations.
The Youth in agriculture in Fiji – Analysis Report” says about 27,000 farmers in Fiji were below the age of 35.
It said as a cash crop with a minimum three-year return period, yaqona dominated commercial agricultural production across Fiji.
“The recent high prices and increased opportunities for export will contribute to its ongoing attraction, especially among young farmers,” it said.
“As yaqona is typically cultivated on hillsides away from traditional village gardens, its cultivation is more suitable for physically fit young farmers.
“Ensuring sustainable production of this crop for long-term impact will be essential.
“Environmental sustainability measures include mulching, composting and inter-cropping with agro-forestry as well as further value adding where feasible at the farm to improve prices paid to producers.”
The report reveals research in Fiji showed over a five-year cropping cycle, one hectare of kava can generate gross income of over $200,000 or over $40,000 per annum on average.
