Macuata rice farmers boost production with new harvester

Rice farmers in Nadogo, Macuata, will now be able to reduce labour demands, improve grain quality, and expand market reach after receiving a cutting-edge rice harvester.

The machine was provided to the Vunidrodro Rice Farmers' Cooperative under the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways' Farm Mechanisation Programme.

The Ministry says that the $52,500 rice harvester, acquired through a one-third, two-thirds cost-sharing arrangement, is a direct implementation of the government’s initiative, which prioritises support for post-harvest storage and processing technologies to ensure high-quality yields for both local consumption and export.

They say with the cooperatives producing more than 90 tonnes of rice paddies this year, the introduction of mechanisation ensures that rice can be harvested efficiently, stored properly, and processed at optimal quality—reinforcing Fiji’s agricultural development goals.

Speaking at the handover ceremony, the Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna, highlighted how mechanisation under the Farm Mechanisation Programme supports the government’s vision of an efficient, self-sustaining agricultural sector.

He says investing in mechanisation is critical to ensuring farmers can harvest and process rice to the highest possible standards, with a focus on post-harvest storage and processing.

Tunabuna says this harvester would allow the Vunidrodro Cooperative to improve efficiency, reduce losses, and elevate the quality of rice available in the market.

The Assistant Minister also emphasised the essential role of women in agriculture, acknowledging their contributions to farm operations, post-harvest management, and the maintenance of food security.

He says that agriculture depends on collective effort, and the contributions of wives, mothers, sisters, and aunties are invaluable.

He says their support ensures the success of farming enterprises.

Ami Chand, the leader of the Vunidrodro Rice Farmers’ Cooperative, welcomed the support from the Ministry, highlighting the direct impact of mechanisation on expanding Fiji’s rice industry.

He says the harvester would allow them to streamline rice processing, maintain quality control, and reduce costs associated with labour-intensive farming.

Chand adds that with improved post-harvest management, they could strengthen their market reach and enhance production.

He expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s continued support in advancing agriculture.