Farmers from Naivorati, Naitasiri, will have a secure future and worry less after signing a contract with the Agriculture Marketing Authority.
While officiating at the signing, Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Environment, Dr Mahendra Reddy said this is a step to take agriculture to new heights.
“There is also a chance for you to be part of the journey this ministry is taking to take agriculture to a different level, to a different height in Fiji’s Economy.”
Minister Reddy added that the agreement would help farmers not worry about selling their produce.
“Today as you signed off on that agreement you will not have to worry as to who will come and buy your products.”
“You do not have to hire one truck, take your products to the market and risk not being able to sell it or having to sell it at a cheaper price.”
In signing the agreement, the farmers also became members of the Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF), which would secure their social security.
Landowner, Tomasi Nasuikau, said that the Ministry has given farmers opportunities to further enhance agriculture in Fiji.
“I am also glad that the farmers will be able not to worry about the future because they are now part of FNPF.”
Farmer Mitieli Nabati acknowledged the vision to take agriculture to new heights in Fiji.
“We are confident that our vision to develop agriculture will be a success and this will be done by working hand in hand between government and the farmers.”