Fiji: The Minster for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Tabuya received a courtesy call from the staff of the Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) on Tuesday afternoon (07/02/2023).
The team consisted of Project Leader Dr Mary Johnson, Regional Manager (ACIAR) Ms Mai Alagcan, Project in-country Manager Ms Aloesi Dakuidreketi-Hickes and Mr Clinton Muller from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT).
The team briefed Minister Tabuya on the work carried out by the centre with regard to the Fiji Landcare project, its vision and how they plan to build on the strength of their partners to explore possible areas of collaboration.
Minister Tabuya thanked ACIAR for “continuing to implement unique initiatives that continue to drive livelihood improvement through knowledge sharing, management of natural resources, agricultural productivity and gender equality.”
Fiji was selected for this research project based on evidence of Landcare and forms of Landcare observed during a previous study of the adoption of Landcare globally. These observations were supported through an ongoing dialogue with the Fiji Ministry of Agriculture, Fiji National University, Tei Tei Taveuni farmers association, NGO’s, community organizations and key individuals.
Minister Tabuya also acknowledged the institute for expanding to include the Fiji National University in the funding of scholarships for students who pursue studies in agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
“I strongly believe that the support rendered to the students engaged in this field will ensure Fiji has an abundance of industry experts to drive the agriculture sector to its full potential”.
The Ministry looks forward to identifying a potential way forward in collaborating to support the livelihood improvements for rural groups and the empowerment of women, their families and communities.
