Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways

09/09/2026

STOCKWELL FARM RECEIVES STATE-OF-THE-ART TRACTOR AS FIJI PUSHES TO DOUBLE DALO PRODUCTION

The Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Honourable Tomasi Tunabuna officially handed over a tractor and implements to Stockwell Farm PTE Ltd in Navua, marking a significant milestone in Fiji’s mission to modernize agriculture, strengthen food security, and expand dalo exports.

Stockwell Farm, owned by Mr. Edward Richard Maxwell Broadbridge, is a household business enterprise that has become a model of resilience and innovation in the dalo sector.

Mr. Broadbridge, a part‑time farmer and businessman residing in Nadi, established his farming enterprise at Rovadrau in 2024 as part of his long‑term investment and retirement plan.

His operation comprises two properties located approximately two blocks apart, a three‑acre leased farm and an eight‑acre freehold property known as Stockwell Farm.

Stockwell Farm specializes in the production of uronivonu dalo, with its produce sold through Agro Marketing.

In January 2025, approximately 20,000 Uronivonu suckers were planted on the three‑acre farm and 30,000 suckers on the eight‑acre Stockwell Farm.

Following the harvesting of the first crop, around 18,000 suckers were replanted on the smaller farm, while 5,446 suckers were replanted on the larger site.

Despite challenges from unfavorable weather and limited tractor services, Stockwell Farm earned $35,000 from dalo sales.

The farm currently employs four full‑time workers and has expanded its operations to include the processing, packing, and sale of Uronivonu in one‑kilogram packets at $6.99 per packet.

Construction of a pack-house is underway, with funding already secured for the facility, assistance is being sought from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for the provision of a three‑phase electricity supply to support the packhouse and enhance the farm’s processing capacity.

In his remarks, the Minister praised Stockwell Farm’s role in maintaining the momentum of dalo farming and setting an example for others.

“Stockwell Farm shows us that resilience and innovation are not abstract ideas, they are lived values and today, we honor that commitment by equipping them with modern tools to match their dedication,” he said.

The tractor handed over yesterday, valued at $49,999.99 under the Ministry’s Mechanisation Assistance Programme.

Under the programme’s cost‑sharing arrangement, Mr. Broadbridge contributed $16,333.33, representing one‑third of the total investment, while the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways provided $32,666.66, representing the remaining two‑thirds.

“This tractor will allow Stockwell Farm to expand its dalo plots, improve yields and meet the growing demand both locally and internationally and mechanisation is how we transform household resilience into commercial‑scale success.”

“With mechanisation, we are not only reducing physical hardship but unlocking new opportunities for Fiji to compete globally and our farmers are the backbone of this ambition, and yesterday’s handover reaffirms our commitment to supporting them,” he said.

Farm Manager Maikeli Rabici expressed his gratitude and shared how the new tractor will transform operations on the farm.

“This machine is a great help because before, I always had to ask around for machines to come and work on the farm,” he said.

“Other farmers who had tractors also had their own farms to plough and when it was finally our turn, the rain would start but now, with our own tractor, we can prepare the land on time and avoid delays, it’s a huge relief for us and will make a big difference in how we plan and plant.”

The handover marked the Ministry’s determination to strengthen its dalo industry, with Stockwell Farm leading the way toward greater production and a more secure agricultural future.

08/09/2026

FIJI-CHINA AGRICULTURAL PARTNERSHIP STRENGTHENED THROUGH TECHNICAL COOPERATION

Fiji and China are strengthening their longstanding agricultural partnership through cooperation in research, technology, training, food security and climate-smart agriculture.

This was highlighted yesterday at the Fiji-China Agricultural Cooperation Visit and Technical Symposium at Koronivia Research Station, bringing together policymakers, researchers, technical experts and industry stakeholders from both countries.

Deputy Secretary for Agriculture Development of the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Dr Tekini Nakidakida, said the symposium is a significant moment in the Fiji-China agricultural partnership, providing an opportunity to review achievements and identify priorities for the next phase of cooperation.

“The partnership between Fiji and China in agriculture spans more than a decade - since 2012 through eight agreements, MOUs and contracts covering rice research, Juncao technology, waterways infrastructure and capacity building, five of which remain active today,” Dr Nakidakida said.

He highlighted the partnership’s achievements in rice research and mechanisation, Juncao technology, waterways development and capacity building.

With Chinese technical support, five local rice varieties have been improved, demonstration sites established at Koronivia, Dreketi and Vanua Levu, and modern equipment including planters, tractors, harvesters and driers introduced to Fiji’s rice sector.

“Juncao technology has also expanded from mushroom cultivation into livestock feed and land and riverbank restoration. More than 2,500 farmers have been trained, with four commercial mushroom enterprises established. The China–Pacific Island Countries Juncao Technology Demonstration Centre, inaugurated in Fiji in 2023, has further strengthened Fiji’s role as a regional hub for the technology,” he said.

Chinese expertise has also supported the successful completion of river dredging works on the Ba, Rewa, Navua and Sigatoka rivers, delivering tangible benefits for community safety and livelihoods.

Since 2012, more than 140 Ministry officers have been trained in China, covering areas ranging from hybrid rice seed production to climate-smart agriculture and leadership.

Dr Nakidakida said the partnership has also evolved through practical experience in matching technology to Fiji’s farming conditions.

“It is precisely this kind of open, continuing dialogue that today’s symposium represents,” he said.

Chinese Embassy Chargé d’Affaires a.i., Mr Wang Yuan said agricultural cooperation between China and Fiji is “injecting new impetus into the sound growth of our bilateral relations.”

Mr Wang said the programme was a concrete step towards translating the Global Development Initiative into action and a practical implementation of the understanding reached by the leaders of both countries to deepen agricultural cooperation.

He said the training programme was closely tailored to local needs and aimed at addressing challenges facing Fijian farmers, including climate change, labour shortages, lack of proper technology and difficulties in marketing.

The programme focuses on the breeding and cultivation of citrus, rice, sugarcane, sweet potato and potato, together with hands-on practical sessions.

He also highlighted the agricultural experience of Fujian Province, saying its technologies and practices suited to local conditions could offer valuable lessons and practical reference for Fiji.

Mr Wang expressed hope that the training would serve as a bridge for sustained agricultural exchanges between the two countries, including greater cooperation in agricultural technology, talent cultivation and food processing.

Looking ahead, Dr Nakidakida said priority areas for future cooperation include protected cropping technology to support the tourism sector, reducing food loss and waste, expanded rice and crop research, climate-smart agriculture, and agricultural trade and investment.

“For Fiji, this partnership strengthens our food security, supports our farmers’ livelihoods, and builds our resilience to climate change,” Dr Nakidakida said.

He encouraged participants to ensure that the symposium concludes with clear priorities and practical follow-up actions.

The Ministry acknowledges the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the Chinese Embassy and the visiting delegation for their continued commitment to strengthening Fiji-China agricultural cooperation.

The five-day symposium brings together Chinese and Fijian agricultural experts for a combination of indoor technical presentations facilitated by the visiting experts and practical field demonstrations in the afternoons. The programme is designed to provide participants with both technical knowledge and hands-on experience relevant to Fiji’s agricultural conditions.

-Ends-

07/09/2026

BUILDING SUCCESS FROM SOIL

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry is encouraging more Fijians to view agriculture as a viable business and a pathway to sustainable livelihoods, with farmers like Bhai Parneel Singh demonstrating what can be achieved through commitment, sound farm management and continuous reinvestment.

In Kulukulu Settlement, Nadroga/Navosa, 38-year-old Singh is building a successful commercial farming enterprise that is contributing to Fiji’s food supply while creating employment and opportunities within his community.

With only a secondary school education, Singh began farming 18 years ago, cultivating vegetables on 11 acres of flatland under a Crown lease. What started as a modest farming venture has steadily developed into a thriving commercial operation supplying fresh produce to major hotels and markets across Viti Levu.

Singh currently grows a diverse range of crops, including lettuce, coriander, eggplant, tomato, long bean, watermelon and cowpea.

His achievements are reflected in the figures. In 2025, his farm produced 99,520 kilograms of vegetables, generating a total family income of $376,930.

Watermelon was among his strongest-performing crops, producing 23,000 kilograms and generating $69,000 in revenue. Coriander, despite having the lowest production volume among his major crops, generated an impressive $55,120 in income.

For Singh, these results are the product of years of careful planning, proper record-keeping and reinvestment.

“I believe in keeping proper records because it helps me understand where I am going and what I need to improve,” he said.

His produce is supplied to major establishments including the InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Holiday Inn Suva and Grand Pacific Hotel, while also reaching consumers through the Lautoka, Suva and Sigatoka markets.

Singh’s journey has also been strengthened through support from the Ministry’s Commercial Agricultural Development Programme (CADP).

Through CADP, he received technical advice, planting materials, agro-inputs and hydroponics support valued at $48,620. The assistance has enabled him to modernise aspects of his farm, improve production and explore new farming methods.

However, challenges remain. Singh’s biggest priority is establishing a proper packing house and storage facility. At present, he carries out packing activities from his residential home, highlighting the need for infrastructure that can support farmers as their businesses grow.

Despite this, Singh continues to reinvest in his farm and has acquired assets for both his family and agricultural enterprise.
His success is also creating opportunities for others. The farm employs six fixed labourers, providing income and stability for families in the surrounding community.

For Singh, agriculture is about more than financial returns.

“I want people to see that farming is not just about income, but also about feeding families, protecting the environment and building a future,” he said.

His advice to aspiring farmers is simple.

“Start small but be consistent, keep proper records, reinvest in your farm, and don’t just think about money. Think about healthy food and opportunities for others. If you respect the land, the land will reward you.”

The Ministry continues to encourage farmers to adopt commercial approaches, improve productivity, diversify production and make use of available technical and development support.

Singh’s journey is a powerful example of this approach in action — demonstrating that with determination, proper planning, investment and the right support, farming can become a sustainable and profitable livelihood.

His story reminds us that agriculture is not simply about working the land; it is about building livelihoods, strengthening communities, feeding the nation, and creating opportunities for the future.

ENDS

05/09/2026

Drivers of the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry based in the Central Division, gathered today at the Ministry Headquarters in Raiwaqa to farewell Vehicle Transport Officer (VTO) Ms Milika Kabu, who has resigned after eight years of dedicated service to take up opportunities overseas.

The farewell was marked by heartfelt emotions as colleagues came together to acknowledge her contribution and the support she has provided in their daily work.

The Principal Agriculture Officer (Headquarters ) Mr Sowane Remudu on behalf of the unit, expressed their gratitude for the VTO’s dedication and assistance, noting that she had been a constant source of guidance and encouragement.

For her part, the VTO shared how difficult it was to leave behind the team she had worked closely with, saying that seeing their appreciation made the farewell even harder.

The farewell was described as a rare and moving occasion, one that captured the genuine bonds of respect and camaraderie built across different roles within the Ministry.

The Ministry extends its best wishes to Milika and her children as they embark on their new journey abroad, and thank her sincerely for her service and contributions to the Ministry.

ENDS

05/09/2026

FIJI STRENGTHENS FRONTLINE DEFENCE THROUGH PARA-VET TRAINING

For Fiji’s farmers, the health of their animals is closely connected to the health of their livelihoods.

Recognising this important link, the completion of specialised Para-Vet Training for 26 officers from the Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has strengthened the capacity of Fiji’s frontline animal health workforce, equipping Para-Vets with enhanced knowledge, practical skills and confidence to better serve livestock farmers and rural communities.

Supported through regional collaboration and with assistance from the Australian Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), as well as the Pacific Community (SPC), the training placed strong emphasis on practical, field-based skills that Para-Vets can immediately apply in their work.

Speaking after the programme, Dr. Dan Edson, an Australian Veterinarian who has been facilitating the training, highlighted the vital role Para-Vets play across the Pacific.

“Farming, agriculture, smallholder and rural livelihoods are all very much dependent on livestock across the Pacific, and you guys play an incredibly important role in supporting our farmers across the region to improve their productivity, improve the health of their animals and hopefully improve the economic outcomes for their farm,” said Dr. Edson.

The training combined theory with hands-on practical experience, covering animal handling, clinical examination, disease recognition, treatment procedures, biosecurity and the responsible use of veterinary medicines.

Participants also undertook practical procedures, including horse and bull castrations, giving them valuable experience in managing more complex animal health situations.

Dr. Edson encouraged the officers to take every opportunity to practise their skills in the field, particularly when working alongside farmers and communities.

“The timing of the training is also significant as animal diseases continue to pose a growing threat to livestock production and food security across the Pacific.”

Dr. Edson pointed to the experience of Australia with avian influenza and emphasised the importance of having a trained animal health workforce on the frontline.

Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Dr. Andrew Tukana, said the strengthening of Fiji’s Para-Vet workforce was particularly important in safeguarding the country’s livestock and poultry industries.

He stressed that early detection, farmer awareness and strong farm biosecurity remain critical in preventing and managing animal diseases and protecting the livelihoods of farmers.

“Early detection, farmer awareness and strong farm biosecurity will remain critical tools in protecting Fiji’s livestock and poultry industries,” Dr. Tukana said.

He said well-trained Para-Vets play an important frontline role in working directly with farmers and communities, identifying potential animal health concerns early and providing appropriate guidance and support.

Dr. Tukana added that strengthening Para-Vets' skills and confidence would improve animal health services, boost livestock productivity, and increase resilience in Fiji’s agriculture sector.

For those who completed the training, the programme has also changed the way they approach their work.

Epeli Misimisi, an officer based at the Batiri Sheep Research Station in Vanua Levu, reflected that the training not only added to their existing knowledge but also changed how they view livestock management.

“The completion of the Para-Vet Training therefore represents more than the conclusion of a course. It is an investment in Fiji’s frontline animal health capacity and in the farmers and communities who depend on healthy livestock for their livelihoods."

“The training may be completed, but the real learning begins when we apply our knowledge to the field,” added Mr. Misimisi.

With enhanced skills and confidence, Fiji’s Para-Vets are now better equipped to work alongside farmers, detect and prevent disease, promote good animal health practices and contribute to a stronger and more resilient livestock sector.

ENDS

04/09/2026

SCGF LAUNCHES NEW DIGITAL TOOLS AND GEDSI FRAMEWORK TO SUPPORT SUGARCANE GROWERS

The Sugarcane Growers Fund (SCGF), yesterday launched three new initiatives to strengthen Fiji’s sugar industry: a Digital Management System, a Chatbot service and a Gender Equality, Disability and Social Inclusion (GEDSI) Framework in Lautoka.

The Honourable Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna and the Honourable Minister for Finance, Commerce and Business Development, Esrom Yosef Immanuel, were present at the event, joining SCGF leaders and partners in officiating the launch.

In his address, Minister Tunabuna stressed that the launch represented a turning point for Fiji’s sugar industry, one that goes beyond digital tools and speaks to the future of farmers and the resilience of the sector.

“It is about the future of our farmers, improving the way Government and institutions serve our people and building a stronger, more resilient sugar industry for Fiji,” he said.

The new Digital Management System will help SCGF move away from paper‑based processes and make information easier to access.

The Chatbot will allow farmers to get instant answers about loans, requirements and services without having to travel long distances.

The GEDSI Framework will ensure that women farmers, people with disabilities and rural communities are included and supported in the industry’s growth.

“Economic development is meaningful only when it reaches everyone and women currently account for approximately 13 percent of farmers within the industry and the program aims at supporting and empowering women farmers, contributes to greater inclusivity and gender equality while also advancing the achievement of relevant Sustainable Development Goals.”

The Minister reminded stakeholders that growers must remain central to all efforts.

“The grower must remain at the centre of everything we do, the Technology, systems, policies and frameworks are tools,” he says.

Acknowledging challenges such as labour shortages, rising costs and climate impacts, the Minister reaffirmed Government’s commitment to modernisation, mechanisation and diversification.

Minister Tunabuna expressed gratitude to the Asian Development Bank, the Reserve Bank of Fiji and the SCGF Board and staff for their support and dedication, noting that the three initiatives represent principles of access to information, financial inclusion and gender equality, marking a new chapter for a modern, inclusive, and digitally enabled Sugarcane Growers Fund.

ENDS

03/09/2026

03/09/2026

12 DAYS TO GO!
📣COUNTDOWN TO THE NATIONAL AGRICULTURE SHOW 2026

The countdown is on, Labasa!

🐮🌾Get ready for the National Agriculture Show 2026, from 15–17 September at Subrail Park, Labasa 🌱🐐.

🥬Come and experience three exciting days showcasing Fiji’s agriculture sector, our farmers, producers, researchers, stakeholders and communities.

02/09/2026

MINISTRY AND FNU STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP TO ADVANCE FIJI’S AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

The Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry and Fiji National University (FNU) have formalised a strategic partnership to strengthen agricultural education, research, innovation, technical expertise and practical training.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Raiwaqa under the framework of “Collaboration within the Framework of Scientific, Technological, and Educational Cooperation in Pursuing Development Goals.”

The Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Hon. Tomasi Tunabuna, commended FNU for strengthening its collaboration with the Ministry.

“I wish to acknowledge and commend Fiji National University for taking this bold and important step to work in closer collaboration with the Ministry.”

He said the MOU provides a framework to bring together knowledge, research, education, technical expertise and practical experience, while strengthening the link between academic learning and the agriculture sector.

“One of the key strengths of this MOU is that it seeks to bridge the gap between the classroom, the research environment, and the field through industrial attachments, student research, training programmes, joint lectures, symposiums, technical assistance and the exchange of expertise.”

The partnership will also enable Ministry officers to contribute practical knowledge and field experience to FNU’s academic and training programmes.

“Bringing this practical expertise into your classrooms will help produce graduates who are not only academically qualified, but also ‘work-ready, innovative and responsive to the real needs of Fiji’s agricultural sector.’”

Hon. Tunabuna said research, innovation and technology would be critical to addressing the challenges facing Fiji’s agriculture sector.

“If we are serious about transforming agriculture, we must strengthen our investment in research, innovation, technology and evidence-based decision-making.”

He also highlighted the importance of preparing young people for the future of agriculture.

“I am particularly encouraged by the provisions relating to students. The future of Fiji’s agricultural sector depends on the young people we are educating and training today. Agriculture training is a ‘life-long skills training’.”

The partnership will provide opportunities across TVET, Diploma, Degree, Postgraduate and Master’s levels, with a focus on developing skills in science, technology, agribusiness, engineering, research, entrepreneurship, digital agriculture and leadership.

The MOU will also strengthen collaboration in veterinary services and livestock disease information.
“Collaboration in veterinary services and timely sharing of livestock disease information are essential to protecting farmers, the livestock industry, public health, and the wider population.”

Hon. Tunabuna said a strong agricultural sector remains essential to Fiji’s development.

“The Government’s development aspirations cannot be achieved without a strong and resilient agricultural sector. Agriculture directly contributes to food and nutrition security, rural livelihoods, employment, economic growth, import substitution, export development, and the well-being of our communities.”

He said the partnership must translate into practical outcomes for farmers, students and communities, supported by clear work programmes, regular engagement and mechanisms to monitor progress.

“Today, we sign the framework, but its true value lies in turning it into concrete programmes, measurable actions, and tangible results.”

He said immediate areas of focus should include student attachments, joint training, sharing facilities and expertise, and aligning TVET education with the practical needs of farming communities.

“Our farmers should be able to see and feel the benefits of this collaboration.”

Hon. Tunabuna thanked FNU’s leadership and staff for taking the partnership forward and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working closely with the University.

“The Ministry looks forward to working closely with Fiji National University to turn the commitments in this MOU into meaningful programmes and outcomes for our farmers, our students, our communities, and the nation.”

He said the partnership should generate knowledge and innovation, develop the skills and leaders Fiji needs, and contribute to a stronger, more productive, resilient and sustainable agriculture sector for Fiji.

ENDS