More than 200 women from across Fiji have gathered in Suva today for the 2026 National Women in Agriculture Symposium, an event highlighting the growing role of women in transforming the country’s agricultural sector and strengthening inclusive value chains.
Speaking at the opening of the three-day symposium, Counsellor at the Australian High Commission, Andrew Shepherd says removing barriers related to gender, disability, safety and access allows people to reach their full potential and strengthens agricultural productivity.
Shepherd says inclusive value chains succeed because they draw on the knowledge and skills of everyone involved, particularly women, who hold a significant share of agricultural expertise across Fiji and the Pacific.
He says initiatives such as the family farm teams approach are helping families move beyond subsistence farming towards semi-commercial production.
He says this approach encourages families to plant together, share responsibilities more fairly and better manage challenges such as climate shocks.
Shepherd adds that recognising women’s leadership within farming households also strengthens agricultural value chains and improves market competitiveness.
He says targeted support across the Pacific has already created new economic opportunities in agriculture.
He pointed to successful initiatives including ginger and turmeric production in Fiji, ornamental horticulture in Samoa and honey production in the Solomon Islands, which have opened new enterprises and market opportunities, particularly for women.
He says the rapid growth of Samoa’s ornamental horticulture sector shows what is possible when women are supported to lead, with the industry now benefiting from new market routes, diverse products and stronger industry leadership.
The symposium also focuses on strengthening women’s leadership in agriculture through climate-smart farming practices, digital market access and stronger links between women producers and buyers.
Shepherd says the strong turnout demonstrates the growing ambition of women in Fiji’s agricultural sector.
He adds that many participants are also preparing to pitch their business ideas, signalling confidence and the emergence of a new generation of agricultural innovators.
