The Ministry for Agriculture has taken development directly to the people of Kadavu, bringing new hope to villages that depend on farming and tourism for their livelihood.

Minister for Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna visited Dravuni Village in the Ono District as part of the Ministry’s effort to strengthen rural livelihoods and protect key crops in outer islands.

During the visit, coconut seedlings were handed over to replace ageing trees and support families whose income is closely linked to community-based tourism.

Latileta Qoli says many of their coconut trees were planted by their ancestors and are now reaching the end of their productive life.

Speaking in Fijian, Latileta Qoli highlights:

“I believe the reason these coconut seedlings were brought here was to help us with our tourism because most of the coconut trees we have here were planted by our ancestors. I don’t know if the youths here have ever planted any coconut seedlings or not” Qoli said.

The seedlings are also expected to create new income for women through coconut oil production and village enterprises.

“I know the coconut seedlings brought today will be very beneficial for us. They will be used for our tourism sector, and also for us ladies, we will be making oil from it” she emphasized.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA