The dreams and aspirations of the youth of Logani Village in the district of Bau in Tailevu have been boosted with the provision of farming implements to assist them in their youth farming project.
Founded in February this year, the Veiwekani Youth Group was established to help steer village youth away from social challenges, including the rising threat of illicit drug activities that are impacting many communities across Fiji.
The youth have cultivated a variety of vegetables and crops, including cabbages, beans, chillies, dhaniya, cucumber, dalo, and yaqona.
Today, the group received around $10,000 worth of farming implements from the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka. The provision of the farming implements was made possible through funding under the Ministry’s Self-Help Programme (SHP).
Youth leader, Mr. Jolame Gonewai said this assistance from Government marked a new beginning for the youth in the village of Logani, one that would not only assist them but would also pave the way for the younger generation in the years to come.
“We had set up this youth group specifically because we have witnessed a lot of young people roaming the streets today, engaging in criminal activities. With the issue of drugs quickly overtaking the lives of many young people, we came together to do something to take young people away from these problems,” said Mr. Gonewai.
“We have a cultivation plan of short-term, monthly, and yearly harvested crops which we are currently following. We are thankful to the Government for the farming implements given to us today because it is very timely. These implements will help us immensely in expanding our farming project.
The farming implements included a generator, water pump, auger drills and grass trimmers, chainsaws, brush cutters, gum boots and raincoats, a water tank and other farming tools, materials for a farmhouse, and additional small items.
In handing over the project, Minister Ditoka reiterated that the strong support and cooperation between the community and Government were vital in ensuring the success of the youth group’s project.
“Drugs are increasingly affecting our communities, harming our youth, families, and villages. It is hoped that the small contribution provided to our youth today will help foster positive growth and encourage the elimination of drug dependency and misuse,” Minister Ditoka said.
