New entrants to mushroom farming are being encouraged by initiatives aimed at expanding this agricultural sector. Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, highlights mushroom cultivation as a relatively new yet financially appealing endeavor. The ministry has developed model training programs to facilitate skill development in this area.
In Labasa, Nacula Village participates in a mushroom planting training project. According to Mr. Tunabuna, the Fijian hotel industry demands a substantial amount of mushrooms, integrating them into their culinary offerings.
Emphasizing food security and diversification of income sources, Mr. Tunabuna states the need for considering alternatives beyond traditional crops. Many sugarcane farmers have transitioned to rice farming as a strategy to enhance income opportunities. Recently, the Waiqele Rice Farmers Cooperative received encouragement to boost rice production further.
Farmers have been advised to exercise patience and are encouraged to apply for farming tools, including rice harvesters, to increase yield. Cooperative's vice-president, Bas Deo, recognized the minister's advice and confirmed plans to amplify rice production with support from mechanical harvesters.
Next week, a team from the agricultural office will visit Nacula Village to assess the mushroom farming training's progress. A greenhouse has been constructed to grow samples of various mushroom varieties as part of trial efforts.
Source: Fiji Sun