Around 50 smallholder farmers gained new skills in organic agriculture and agroecology, under training sessions run by the Pacific Organic Learning Farms Network (POLFN) project.

Two training sessions aimed at familiarising small-holder farmers with both the concept and implementation of organic agriculture and agroecology, and offered support in converting their farms to organic practices. The training was held at the Mahuleva Organic Learning Farm Centre in Tongatapu, from 8-11 of July.

SPC Tonga Coordinator Mr. Drew Havea shared some challenges that farmers faced and was hopeful that the training would change the mindset of smallholder farmers.

“Many farmers face the challenge of weed management, thus prompting their reliance on chemical solutions. So, we’re glad that this training in organic farming offers a vital platform to promote sustainable agriculture,” he said.

The dedicated farmers were introduced to a set of organic agricultural concepts and methodologies, through an approach involving both classroom instruction and practical experience in farm fields in Mahuleva. They had applied to the POLFN Project and were selected from across Tongatapu.

Farmer Melesila Weilert said, “This training brings together a diverse group of participants from different communities with varied challenges and solutions. By learning from each other, we're discovering how to collaborate effectively and also achieve our individual and community agricultural plans, contributing to national objectives.”

Weilert is the Fo’i Tuluta Social Environment and Economic Development (SEED) Chairperson and has been farming organic vegetables for more than a decade in Tonga.

Small-holder farmers on Vava’u island will also benefit from similar organic and agroecological farming training at the Ovava Organic Learning Farm Centre, and are scheduled to begin their training at the end of July, SPC stated.

The POLFN project is implemented at the Pacific Community (SPC) through the Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community. POLFN aims to benefit a total of 100 farmers residing in Tongatapu and Vava’u in Tonga. The POLFN Project is funded by the Kiwa Initiative and is dedicated to establishing a network of organic farms that exemplifies nature-based solutions such as agroecology, agroforestry, and various innovative organic production methods and technologies.