Youths living in Lami were recently taught on the different farming techniques in a bid to help communities combat against the effects of climate change.
The Land Resource Planning Division (LRPD) of the Ministry of Agriculture, in partnership with the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)and the Lami Town Council worked together to bring about this first ever workshop conducted for informal communities in semi-urban areas along the Suva-Nausori corridor.
WWF’s workshop coordinator, Apolosa Robaigau said a total of 30 participants from Lami village; Suvavou village and Qauia settlement were part of the workshop.
The first day of the workshop included in-house theory whereby farmers were informed on how to utilize their farmland sustainably for high production without affecting the surrounding environment and extension.
On the second day, the staff of LRPD and the participants took to the field to begin planting on demonstration sites the relevant grass like vertiver as well asother crops and vegetables.
Acting Agriculture Officer LRPD, Solomone Nagaunavou said “Even though the WWF has been running their program in this area from last year the Ministry of Agriculture plays an integral part in complementing the existing program.
“I thank the WWF for approaching the staff of the Ministry to educate the participants on the rightful farming techniques which are suitable for their land in theupper catchment of Lami and also to prepare the youths so that they can easily adapt to the change in climate conditions.”
Mr Nagaunavou stressed that the Ministry not only promotes for the protection of our environment during farming but also emphasized at this workshop on the importance of ensuring food security in the form of backyard farming as a source of food for our families especially for people living in the town areas.