Merewalesi Naqase, a 23-year-old farmer from Tailevu, beamed with pride as she stepped into Fiji’s first Agribusiness Incubation Centre.
For young farmers like her, the new centre represents more than just infrastructure, it is a doorway to opportunity, growth, and financial independence.
This was highlighted by Minister of Agriculture Tomasi Tunabuna during the launch of the EU and FAO-funded STODAS Project, which marks a key milestone in Fiji’s mission to strengthen food security, boost rural incomes, and empower women and youth in agriculture.
Tunabuna says the centre, located within the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways, will offer practical support, from training and mentorship to business development and market access, for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the agri sector.
He says agriculture remains a vital part of Fiji’s economy, contributing 7 percent to GDP in 2023 and supporting thousands of households.
he adds that challenges persist, including an aging farmer population, climate pressures and limited youth engagement.
Tunabuna says the Government’s new 2025–2035 Non-Sugar Agriculture Sector Policy directly addresses these gaps, with targets such as a 50 percent income increase for small farmers and transitioning 50 percent of youth and women into commercial agriculture by 2035.
He further says that ministerial partnerships and support from the European Union and FAO make this centre a symbol of transformation, a hub where tradition meets innovation.
Tunabuna adds that with over 82 percent of Fiji’s businesses classified as MSMEs, the centre will be a catalyst for inclusive growth, ensuring that agri-entrepreneurs are not left behind but instead lead the way.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Trade Manoa Kamikamica also highlighted the story of 26-year-old Anurag Kumar, who now runs a thriving hydroponic farm thanks to support from the Young Entrepreneurship Scheme.
Kamikamica says this success story is just one of many emerging from new government initiatives aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs and transforming Fiji’s agricultural sector.
He adds that the Ministry has announced $4.9 million in MSME grant programmes for this financial year, coupled with key policy changes focused on export strategies, workforce development, and trade support.
Kamikamica says government officials, development partners, and training institutes such as the Naguso Agricultural Training Technical Institute are working together to build a new generation of agripreneurs.
He adds that, this is more than a centre, it is an investment in the people, the future, and food systems.
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