The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation, Hon. Viliame Gavoka, officially opened the 2024 National Agriculture Show, emphasizing the theme “Empowering Farmers, Cultivating Resilience through Innovation and Inclusiveness in Climate Smart Agriculture.”

In his speech, Minister Gavoka acknowledged the traditional owners of the land and highlighted the essential role of agriculture in Fiji’s economy, culture, and community. He stressed the need for innovation and sustainable practices to confront the escalating challenges of climate change and global market fluctuations.

One of the show’s highlights is the launch of the Farm to Fork Initiative, a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, the Ministry of Fisheries and Forestry, and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. This initiative aims to connect local farmers directly with hotels, restaurants, and other tourism operators, ensuring tourists experience the freshest Fijian cuisine while supporting local agriculture. It also emphasizes sustainability by reducing the carbon footprint associated with food imports, aligning with global sustainability trends and promoting eco-friendly tourism practices.

Minister Gavoka shared that Fiji’s exports of fresh and chilled products increased by 16% between January and June 2024, while imports dropped by 3%, saving the nation $17 million. He highlighted the importance of continued support for farmers through government initiatives and private sector partnerships to ensure food security, improve nutrition, and foster economic growth.

The 2024 National Agriculture Show is a platform to showcase innovations and successes in the agricultural sector, fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration among farmers, industry stakeholders, and the public. The event also aims to build resilience, combat poverty, and elevate all Fijians’ living standards.

In conclusion, Minister Gavoka called for unity and commitment to support, learn from one another, and strive for excellence in agriculture, ultimately building a sustainable and thriving sector for Fiji’s future.

To read more of the Minister’s speech click here. https://tinyurl.com/47ykhanb