What's Happening?
The Ministry of Agriculture's Research Division in Fiji is intensifying efforts to diversify crop production and support farmers with resilient and high-value commodities. Principal Research Officer Savenaca Cuquma emphasized the division's role in identifying and developing new crops suitable for Fiji's conditions before commercial farming. A key focus is the underdeveloped fruit industry, with partnerships like the Taiwan Technical Mission aiming to increase tropical fruit production. The division is also working on climate-resilient crops for dry zones, including pulses like cowpea and pigeon pea, which are rich in protein. Beyond fruits and pulses, the division promotes crop diversification, including rice, vegetables, and mushrooms, to offer sustainable alternatives to sugarcane and new income opportunities.
Why It's Important?
This initiative is crucial for Fiji's agricultural sector, which faces challenges due to climate change and the need for economic diversification. By developing climate-resilient and high-value crops, the Ministry aims to enhance food security and provide farmers with sustainable income sources. The focus on tropical fruits and pulses can lead to increased agricultural productivity and export potential, benefiting the local economy. Additionally, promoting crop diversification helps reduce reliance on sugarcane, a historically dominant but volatile crop, thus stabilizing farmers' livelihoods.
