Ministry assists Naitasiri Farmers

The Ministry of Agriculture in the 2016/2017 financial year assisted 44 farmers develop potential land in Baulevu and Hookers Subdivision in Naitasiri under the Flat Land Development Programme.

With the Flat Land Development Programme allocation of $500,000, the assistance involves desilting, drainage and on occasions farm access development to ease transportation of farm goods to the markets.

In addition is the provision of seed materials such as dalo and assorted vegetables to farmers to enhance food and income security.

Senior Agriculture Officer (Naitasiri) Adriano Tabualevu said the Ministry’s assistance has developed idle land into the visible establishment of cash crops. “The Flat Land Development Program covers the flat land development in the Central Division. These areas are boggy flat lands and prone to flooding,” Mr Tabualevu said. Mr. Tabualevu added that the Ministry has assisted farmers in the maintenance of farm access, drainage and the introduction of the tuatua concept to support develop the idle flat lands.

Baulevu farmer Samuela Matea said the development has encouraged him to extend his farm and earn him more income through his cash crops.

“My land was only used for pasture as crops were often damaged during heavy downpour but now with de-silting and proper drainage, we are thankful that we are now able to plant without worrying,” he said.

“The maintenance of the farm road has also solved the transportation problem to the market. Due to poor road condition, production rate from our area was poor but now production has increased.” Under the Flat Land Development Program, the Ministry will also develop areas in Naitasiri such as Muaniweni, Viria, Nabaitavo, Lutu and Serea flats.