West Farmers Thrive in Aquaculture Ventures
Farmers from Nadi and Lautoka have shifted their focus to serious tilapia farming as a source of livelihood.
About eight tilapia farmers belonging to a Nadi and Lautoka Cluster Group met last week in Masara, Nadi.
They discussed ways and means to collaborate to improve their aquaculture ventures. Speaking to farmers, Principal Fisheries Officer , Neomai Ravitu, said that the initiative by the cluster was encouraging and was a means of sharing experiences and goals. “The ministry is indeed grateful to see that you have been meeting frequently to discuss on your individual farms and to update each other on your progress,”Ms Ravitu.
“It is also much needed reassurance to the ministry that you are able to forge ahead with your programmes and at the same time work closely with the ministry in terms of technical advice.”
Cluster president, Aazad Ali, said they had started with only 11 members.
They are hopeful that more individuals and groups will be able to start their own tilapia farms as a source of livelihood and go on to form their own clusters. “Some members have been doing tilapia farming for over seven years and some have only started recently,” Mr Ali said. “Through information sharing and updating, we have been able to make progress.”
Farmers updated the forum on their various marketing strategies as well as challenges that they face.
“The ministry is responsible in securing food security and alternative livelihoods for the people, so we encourage interested individuals who wish to venture into tilapia farming to visit your nearest fisheries station and seek advice,” Ms Ravitu said.
The Nadi and Lautoka Cluster Group was formed in 2017 through collaboration of the Ministry of Fisheries as well as the Pacific Community.
The group has also been assisted by the Pacific Community in terms of small farming equipment in 2018.
Early this year, tilapia farmers in the Western Division also attended a Financial Literacy Training with the aim of learning how to better manage their finances and profits. The ministry in collaboration with the Pacific Community will continue to guide tilapia farmers and help the industry to thrive and grow.