Government continues to strengthen rural livelihoods and economic resilience through targeted development initiatives, with the commissioning of the Anasa Beef Farming Project and a Rural Housing Assistance (RHA) project in Rakiraki.
The projects were commissioned by the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Mosese Bulitavu, during his visit to the area and were funded under the Ministry’s Rural Outer Island (ROI) Development Programme.
Beef farmer Mr. Anasa Turaga, who manages a 154-acre cattle farm, said Government support had come at a critical time.
“I have faced many challenges, especially with theft of my livestock and preparing the land for the cattle. I am very grateful to Government for believing in me and stepping in to help address these issues. This support means a lot to me,” Mr. Turaga said.
Mr. Turaga currently owns more than 100 cattle and supplies beef to the Fiji Meats Industry Abattoir in Nakasi. He encouraged young people across Fiji to consider livestock farming as a viable source of income.
“Livestock farming is something our youths should look into. It is manageable and it can earn you good money,” he said.
Hon. Bulitavu said projects such as the Anasa Beef Farming Project demonstrated Government’s focus on empowering rural communities.
“By strengthening small-scale agriculture and livestock farming, Government is empowering rural families to generate income, improve food security and build economic resilience,” he said.
He added that the combined investments in water, housing and livelihoods highlighted Government’s integrated approach to rural development.
“We are not only building infrastructure; we are improving health, supporting livelihoods, enhancing resilience and strengthening social inclusion,” Minsiter Bulitavu said.