Results for agriculture

An 18 month long project to support the development of the vanilla industry in Vava'u this year has also helped Tonga's MAFF and Australian development partners to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by vanilla growers and the vanilla industry. Over 100 vanilla growers were directly assisted and 328 plantations monitored under the project, which has identified a need for new plantings, particularly on small family plantations.

A goal of year round agricultural harvesting of top quality organic vegetables is within reach for Tonga, except that farmers need to understand just how valuable pig shit really is in order to achieve this. A remarkable method of “biogas farming” using pigs and their waste to produce high yield top quality produce could transform subsistence farming incomes. It’s been demonstrated that a properly run biogas farm in Tonga can earn $200,000 or more a year - yet the opportunity is not being fully realized. By Eleanor Gee

Tonga’s goal of opening up a potential new market in China for its squash exports is another step closer. This week Chinese and Tongan officials agreed on the standards and processes that need to be met for a successful squash export partnership between the two countries.

Irrigation systems for Tongan crops has become a new priority, after a drought in the Pacific last year affected a trial project of planting Zeamays, or different types of corn (Maize) in Tonga that was intended to encourage the expansion of small holder farming.

The Royal Agricultural, Fisheries and Industrial show in Vava’u was opened by King Tupou VI on Saturday, 8 August.

Regional experts meeting in Apia, Samoa, have recognised the vital role of local agriculture in food security and resilience to climate change.

The ‘Eua Agricultural Show 2014 was held today, Friday 15 August at the Niu'eiki grounds in Angaha, attended by King Tupou VI.

Vegetable nurseries are being established for 17 communities in the cyclone-hit islands of Ha‘apai and Vava‘u to help them recover and sustain their food crops.

The Ha’apai Group will not be joining the Royal Agricultural, Fisheries and Industrial Shows in 2014 due to the extensive damage caused by Tropical Cyclone Ian in January this year.