Salutations:
Acknowledgement
Ni sa bula vinaka. It is with great respect and humility that I stand here today to address you all at the British American Tobacco Fiji Star Farmers Award ceremony.
I would like to begin by acknowledging the Traditional Leaders and custodians of this land, Ki Navatulevu vua Na Momo Na Tui Nadi, and their chiefs, past, present, and emerging, I pay my respects and thank them for their custodianship of this land, which continues to be a source of strength and pride for our people and our nation.
Introduction
Today, we gather to celebrate the hard work, dedication, and excellence of our Fijian farmers.
The British American Tobacco Fiji Star Farmer Program is a shining example of how investment, innovation, and good farming practices can transform agriculture in Fiji.
Over the years, British American Tobacco Fiji (BAT) has demonstrated that the agriculture sector holds immense potential for growth, and through their support and training programs, they are helping our farmers increase productivity, income, and sustainability.
Role of Agriculture in Fiji’s Development
Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Fiji’s development agenda. It provides food, employment, and livelihoods for a significant portion of our people.
Our government recognises that modern, productive, and efficient agriculture is essential for economic growth and national development.
We are committed to transforming our agriculture sector into a vibrant engine of a fast-growing, resilient, and modern economy that contributes meaningfully to economic diversification, food security and resilience, employment creation, particularly in rural areas and sustainable economic growth
Our goal is clear: to achieve at least 6% GDP growth annually by boosting investment, raising productivity, and expanding export opportunities.
This occasion is not only a recognition of individual excellence—it is a reflection of the transformative role of agriculture in Fiji’s development, and the power of partnerships between Government, the private sector, and our rural communities.
Contribution of Investors like BAT
In this regard, the contribution of British American Tobacco Fiji is acknowledged.
Over many decades, BAT Fiji has demonstrated a continued commitment to working alongside local farmers through structured programs that build technical capacity and agronomic knowledge, promote best farming practices and quality standards, improve yields and farmer incomes and strengthen supply chain resilience.
Such partnerships highlight the important role of the private sector in complementing Government efforts, and in contributing to inclusive and sustainable development outcomes.
Importantly, initiatives such as the Star Farmers Program reflect how investment in people—particularly farmers—can generate broad-based economic benefits, strengthen rural livelihoods, and contribute to national prosperity.
Impact of the Star Farmer Program
Since its establishment in 2022, the Star Farmer Program is more than just an award; it is a demonstration of excellence and a catalyst for change, excellence, innovation and knowledge sharing. By recognising farmers who apply best practices, such as proper fertilisation, weed control, and timely planting, this program helps boost yields and income.
It also encourages farmers to adopt modern and efficient farming techniques, improve crop quality and productivity and embrace sustainable practices in the face of climate challenges and ensuring food security.
Today, over 600 farmers have benefited from training in agronomy and best practices. These farmers are not only increasing their productivity but also contributing to the broader economy by producing higher-quality crops, expanding their markets, and creating employment opportunities. The impact is evident also in increased confidence and capability of farmers to participate more competitively in the economy.
The farmers’ efforts and success stories are a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of our people.
Farming as an Engine for Economic Growth
Our government believes that agriculture can be a key driver for Fiji’s economic growth. As we aim for 6% GDP growth, increasing productivity in farming is crucial.
Modern agriculture, supported by investments from both the public and private sectors, will help us create a more competitive economy.
When farmers succeed, rural incomes rise, employment opportunities expand, communities become more resilient and the national economy grows stronger. The multiplier effect of agricultural development extends across sectors—supporting transport, trade, manufacturing, and services.
Investors like BAT, along with our farmers, are helping to build this future. Their contributions, whether through improved yields, new technologies, or better farming practices, are directly linked to increase export earnings and economic activity, improved livelihoods for farming communities and skills development within the agricultural workforce.
This aligns with Government’s broader objective of fostering a diversified and inclusive economy.
Coalition Government and Policy
Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment where both farmers and investors can thrive.
This includes strengthening rural infrastructure and connectivity, improving access to finance and extension services, supporting research, innovation, and climate resilience and ensuring that policies promote fairness, sustainability, and long-term growth
We recognise that strong partnerships—between Government, private sector, and communities—are essential to achieving these outcomes.
Initiatives like the Star Farmers Program exemplify this collaborative approach. They show that by working together, we can achieve more, faster, and more inclusively.
Recognition of Farmers and Investors
Today’s awards celebrate the resilience, hard work, and excellence of our farmers. They are the backbone of our nation’s development. Their efforts, supported by investors like BAT, are vital to building a stronger, more prosperous Fiji.
I want to thank all the farmers recognised today for their dedication and innovation. Your hard work embodies excellence and leadership in agriculture. Your dedication, resilience, and commitment to quality continue to elevate the standards of Fiji’s farming sector and strengthen the livelihoods of rural communities across the country.
I also commend the British American Tobacco for their ongoing support to our agriculture sector, with their initiatives and partnerships recognised for promoting best farming practices and contributing to community, and environmental development.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to progress, sustainability, and the wellbeing of our people. Reinforcing the positive role BAT plays in supporting our farmers and communities.
Conclusion and Call to Action
As we look to the future, I urge all stakeholders, government, investors, farmers, and communities, to continue working together.
Our shared vision is a Fiji that is resilient, prosperous, and globally competitive. We are committed to creating an environment where investment flourishes, productivity rises, and our economy grows at a pace that benefits all Fijians.
Together, with hard work, innovation, and partnership, we will achieve our goal of 6% GDP growth, transforming Fiji into a modern, resilient, and thriving nation.
Vinaka Vakalevu, Dhanyavaad, and Thank You.
