More than half a million dollars has been given by the Fiji Development Bank to bee farmers for loans to enrich their skills and increase economic opportunities for the local bee farmers.
FDB Chief Executive Officer, Saud Minam says beekeeping is becoming a popular form of agricultural activity in Fiji and they are doing their part in helping these bee farmers capitalize on its economic returns.
Minam says guidance will be provided by both the Ministry of Agriculture and the Association for Farmers through the nuances of bee management, from constructing bee boxes to effectively marketing their produce.
The CEO says it will also be an opportunity for the Bee farmers in Savusavu as the FDB, the Ministry of Agriculture and the Fiji Beekeepers Association conducted a day training program that focused on enriching skills and increasing economic opportunities for the local bee farmers.
He also says representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture and the Fiji Beekeepers Association have shared their experience and practical knowledge in bee management during a training in the Savusavu.
Minam says earlier this year, the Fiji Beekeepers Association organized an inaugural week long Pacific Islands Beekeeping Congress held in-country and was attended by over 200 beekeeper enthusiasts from across the Pacific region.
Minam adds this shows that beekeeping has great potential to be a leading revenue earner not only for Oceania but for Fiji as well.
He says they want to remain an integral part of the ‘buzz’ and they are excited to provide the support these bee farmers need to continue developing their passions and fueling local economies.
The CEO says that the FDB team presenting certificates to the participants, marking a step forward in this collaborative journey of nurturing a vibrant beekeeping community in Fiji.
