DEPUTY PM HON. VILIAME GAVOKA'S SPEECH AT THE OPENING OF THE BEEKEEPING TRAINING WORKSHOP

Good morning, ladies and gentlemen,
 
To begin, I acknowledge the traditional owners of these lands.
Na Vanua o Naua, delaniyavu i Sawaieke, na Vi- Bulou na Taukei Na Ua. I Betoraurau, Were Levu i Erenavula, na Viyagwane na Jui Habeto.
 
Their leaders – past, present and emerging.
 
Muju cola vina! It is a privilege to be here today at this important workshop focused on strengthening the beekeeping industry in Fiji.
 
I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt thanks to Votualevu College and its management team for their generosity in hosting this event and for their unwavering support in making this workshop possible. Your commitment to fostering learning and development in our communities is commendable, and we are deeply grateful.

I also want to commend BeePower Australia and ESG Pacific for organizing this transformative program. Your dedication to empowering local communities through sustainable beekeeping exemplifies the kind of collaboration we need to drive Fiji’s development forward.
 
Community-led partnerships such as this workshop are powerful tools for improving livelihoods, particularly for rural grassroots communities. By building capacity, fostering innovation, and promoting self-reliance, these partnerships create opportunities that transform lives.
 
For many rural families, industries like beekeeping are more than just a source of income—they are a pathway to empowerment, stability, and dignity.
 
The Coalition Government is deeply committed not just to development, but to targeted development that prioritizes the needs of rural communities. We aim to ensure that initiatives like this empower individuals to be active participants in shaping their futures.
 
Fiji is a land of opportunity, blessed with unparalleled biodiversity, rich cultural heritage, and a thriving tourism industry. Beekeeping plays a vital role in maintaining this delicate balance. Bees, as pollinators, are essential to our ecosystems.

They support biodiversity, enhance agricultural productivity, and contribute to food security. The products of beekeeping—honey, wax, and other derivatives—hold immense potential for export, local value addition, and even the emerging area of apitourism.
 
The concept of apitourism, where beekeeping intersects with tourism, is particularly exciting. Imagine visitors donning beekeeper suits, learning about the delicate process of honey production, and tasting fresh honey straight from the hive.
 
These experiences can enrich Fiji’s tourism portfolio, attract eco-conscious travellers, and position our nation as a leader in sustainable tourism practices. This integration of agriculture and tourism not only diversifies our economy but also ensures development that is inclusive and community-focused.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, the Coalition Government is committed to creating an enabling environment for investments and innovation. Over the past year, we have made significant strides in attracting foreign investors and fostering partnerships that bring expertise, technology, and market access to Fiji.
 
The Ministry of Tourism & Civil Aviation, is collaborating with the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation, Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways and the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry in a significant move to promote sustainable food practices.
 
With the theme, “Connecting Farmers to Chefs”, is aimed to strengthen the linkage between local farmers and hotels, restaurants, and other food and beverage outlets. We have held workshops for farmers and hotels and service providers in three divisions and we are committed to keep up the momentum.
 
Ladies and gentlemen, initiatives like this workshop demonstrate the incredible possibilities that arise when international expertise meets local ingenuity. I commend BeePower Australia for recognising Fiji not just as a market but as a true partner in advancing sustainable economic growth.
 
The Coalition Government’s National Development Plan 2025-2029, emphasises economic diversification, empowerment, and inclusive development. Formal trainings like this one are essential to achieving these goals.
 
By equipping our beekeepers with practical skills and innovative techniques, we are enhancing livelihoods and contributing to Fiji’s national economic growth.

Beekeeping is unique in its minimal environmental impact, its ability to foster biodiversity, and its potential to provide a sustainable source of income for rural communities.
 
I would also like to highlight the significant role that beekeeping plays in addressing broader social issues. It provides meaningful opportunities for women and youth, enabling them to contribute actively to the economic well- being of their communities.
 
By supporting industries like beekeeping, we address rural poverty, promote gender equity, and build resilience against the impacts of climate change.
 
In closing, I encourage all participants to make the most of this opportunity. The knowledge and skills you gain here today will not only strengthen your individual ventures but also contribute to building a robust beekeeping industry in Fiji.
 
Together, we can create an ecosystem where innovation, sustainability, and community development thrive hand in hand.
 
Once again, I extend my gratitude to Votualevu College, BeePower Australia, ESG Pacific, and all the organisers for their exceptional work in bringing this initiative to life. Let us work together to harness the potential of Fiji’s beekeeping industry and pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future for all.
 
Vina valevu djina and thank you.