Climate-smart agriculture will take center stage at the 2024 National Agriculture Show, set to run from October 15 to 18 at the Valelevu Grounds in Nasinu.
The event, themed “Empowering Farmers: Cultivating Resilience through Innovation and Inclusiveness in Climate-Smart Agriculture,” will showcase innovative solutions aimed at helping farmers adapt to the challenges of climate change.
Minister for Agriculture Vatimi Rayalu said that the show will focus on practical ways to mitigate the impact of rising sea levels, saltwater intrusion, and other climate-related threats to Fiji’s agricultural sector.
Speaking at the event’s launch at their head office in Suva today, Rayalu outlined how climate change is already visibly affecting agriculture in Fiji, stating that “saltwater intrusion has not only affected the coast, it is going right up the river, you can actually smell the sea.”
He added that the loss of arable land due to rising sea levels and other factors is a pressing issue:
“We are already losing arable land to other forms of development, and then we are losing our flat land to saltwater intrusion. It cannot be as productive anymore.”
The four-day event is expected to bring together farmers, agricultural experts, industry leaders, and the public to discuss these challenges. Through hands-on sessions, demonstrations, and expert discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the latest advancements in climate-smart practices.
“We will hold side events where members of the public can participate in hands-on sessions and discussions led by experts on topics ranging from soil health to smart farming techniques,” Rayalu said.
Keynote speakers will also share their insights on the future of agriculture, offering valuable perspectives on how technology, sustainability, and food security intersect. The show will also feature real-time demonstrations of new machinery and technologies designed to improve farming efficiency and productivity.
Rayalu underscored the importance of adopting climate-smart practices by focusing on traditional crops that have shown resilience over centuries, saying, “Instead of coming up with too many hybrids, we would rather just propagate the traditional varieties that we have, because these are varieties that have stood the test of time.” Highlighting crops like coconuts and other local staples, he added, “We are fortunate that we have these varieties, and we do have breeds of livestock that have adapted to our local conditions.”
The National Agriculture Show will not only focus on crops but will also feature new livestock breeds and showcase animal health and production techniques. Visitors can expect to see demonstrations on biogas production, and other advanced livestock practices. The show will also offer opportunities for farmers to raise concerns directly with ministry officials.
The event will also include a “Farmers’ Village,” where local farmers will showcase their produce and value-added products. There will be interactive exhibits, farm-to-table experiences, and educational activities for all ages.
“I urge farmers, school children, the general public, to join us at the agriculture show 2024 as we celebrate the innovations shaping the future of agriculture and work towards a more sustainable and productive industry.”
In the lead-up to the event, the Ministry of Agriculture will use various platforms such as radio programs and talkback shows to provide further updates on the show’s activities.
