STRENGTHENING THE BLUE PACIFIC WITH SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE AND FOOD SYSTEMS

The 2024 Pacific Small Island Developing States Solutions (SIDS) Forum began this morning at the Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort in Denarau, Nadi.

In opening the four days meeting, Chief Guest, the Director General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (UNFAO), Dr. Qu Dongyu stressed on the importance of collaboration.

The Director General said that participants have all travelled a great distance to learn from each other focused on solutions- both existing and new ones- to achieve good food for all for today and tomorrow.

"This journey also recognizes the key role of Pacific SIDS as an incubator to develop and test concrete, practical and adaptable solutions, which could benefit SIDS in other regions," he added.

The Prime Minister of Fiji, Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka while delivering his address, said that all leaders, experts, and stakeholders have gathered with a common purpose to forge innovative pathways toward a thriving Blue Pacific Continent characterized by Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and ultimately, a Better Life for all our people.

Hon. Rabuka highlighted the need to recognize the significant outcomes anticipated from COP28, which will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Pacific Small Island Developing States.

"We must advocate for ambitious commitments that recognize the unique vulnerabilities of our island nations. It is essential that the outcomes of COP28 align with our goals of enhancing food security, protecting our ecosystems, and ensuring the resilience of our communities in the face of climate change," added Hon. Rabuka.

"Climate change looms as an existential threat, impacting our agricultural productivity, compromising our food security, and exacerbating the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)."

"Our agrifood systems are at a critical juncture. While we are blessed with fertile lands and abundant marine resources, we must also confront the harsh realities of unsustainable practices, invasive species, and the increasing frequency of climate-induced disasters," said Hon. Rabuka.

He said these challenges demand our immediate attention and collective action.

"Within these challenges also lie opportunities, and these are opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and implement scalable solutions that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of our island communities."

Hon. Rabuka stated that integrating agriculture and tourism provides a unique chance to develop exceptional experiences that educate visitors about our diverse agricultural heritage and traditions. Adding that this approach not only generates income for farmers but also contributes to the preservation of our ecosystems.

Furthermore, he highlighted that we are standing on the brink of a digital revolution that has the power to transform our agrifood systems.

"With one of the lowest internet data charges in the world, Fiji is poised to leverage digital technologies to improve agricultural practices, enhance market access, and streamline supply chains."

He added digital tools can empower our farmers with information, improve efficiencies, and connect them to broader markets, creating a more resilient and sustainable agrifood system.

Hon. Rabuka also acknowledged the significant labour shortages currently faced by Fiji and other Pacific Island Countries.

He said this shortfall poses a challenge to our agrifood systems, as it limits our capacity to produce, process, and market our agricultural products effectively.

"We must explore innovative solutions to attract and retain great talents in our agriculture sector, including enhancing vocational agriculture training and promoting agriculture as a viable career path for our youth," stated Hon. Rabuka.

Both leaders called on development partners, civil society organizations, non-governmental organizations, and all stakeholders to join forces in our quest for a better Blue Pacific Continent.

The forum's theme is "Transforming Agrifood Systems for our Blue Pacific Continent through Better Production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment and a Better Life".

The event will showcase solutions to transform agrifood systems in the Pacific Islands region and also promote knowledge-sharing to advance the Sustainable Development Goals for agriculture, nutrition, environment, and health.

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