Organic farming communities across Fiji have received a major boost following the distribution of essential farming equipment to 195 farmers under the Pacific Organic Learning Farms Network (POLFN) project.

The support, provided by the Pacific Community (SPC), aims to improve productivity and strengthen resilient agroecological farming systems across the country. Farmers received a range of equipment, including spades, wheelbarrows, watering cans, pruning shears, compost bins, fencing materials, shade cloths and knapsack sprayers.

SPC Project Manager Fuatino Fatiaki said the tools will help make day-to-day farming more efficient, particularly for farming households that may struggle to afford essential equipment.

She said the project is also helping farmers build productive and sustainable farms while strengthening farming clusters to better withstand future challenges.

Fatiaki noted that recent global events, including the COVID-19 pandemic and rising fuel costs, have highlighted the vulnerability of food systems, adding that strengthening local farming systems would help improve community resilience and food security for future generations.

The initiative has been welcomed by farmers across the country.

Burenitu farmer Meli Nacola said the support had boosted the morale of farmers and encouraged many to continue transitioning to organic farming.

Meanwhile, Draubuta Youth Organic Farm cluster leader Viliame Gaso described the assistance as an important milestone, saying the equipment would help improve farm operations, strengthen skills and support the production of healthy food using organic farming practices.

SPC says the Pacific Organic Learning Farms Network project will continue to focus on establishing self-sustaining farming communities through ongoing training, farmer-to-farmer learning and practical support.

The POLFN project is part of the KIWA Initiative managed by SPC’s Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community initiative and is funded by the European Union, Agence Française de Développement, Global Affairs Canada, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.