The Mataqali Bau Cooperative of Matacaucau Village in Namalata, Tailevu will see a major boost in farm efficiency and land preparation after receiving a brand new tractor from the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways under the Farm Mechanisation Programme.
Established this year, the cooperative consists of 19 members who primarily cultivate root crops and assorted vegetables on mataqali land.
With a total of 122.96 acres available for farming, the tractor will benefit members, their families, and the wider community by enhancing farming operations and productivity.
The cooperative’s one-third contribution toward the tractor was made possible through the combined efforts of members currently serving in the British Armed Forces abroad, reflecting the strong unity and commitment of mataqali members both at home and overseas toward advancing agricultural development.
President of the Mataqali Bau Cooperative, Akuila Bulewa Vecenayawa acknowledged the Ministry for the timely assistance, saying it would help strengthen their farming operations and achieve their long-term goals.
He says the potential in agriculture is huge, and if not planned well, we would only be losing out on a lot of income that should be circulating within our households.
He adds that this tractor will make a big difference for them as they can now prepare their land more efficiently and expand their farming activities.
Vecenayawa also expressed gratitude to members serving in the British Armed Forces, saying their contribution made the tractor possible and showed their commitment to community development despite being abroad.
Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Tomasi Tunabuna congratulated the cooperative members for their initiative and teamwork, highlighting the unity that made the project possible.
He says this tractor is a tool that will help them realise their long-term goals and turn their plans into reality.
He has commended the Mataqali Bau Cooperative for their teamwork, especially the contribution from members serving overseas.
The Minister says that when communities take ownership of development, the entire nation benefits.
