Evaluating an alternative approach to sector development in Pacific island countries
Background
Australia's development assistance program aims to drive economic prosperity by supporting key sectors to transition into innovative and high-value industries, promoting collaboration, commercialisation, stakeholder engagement, capacity building and training. The tilapia and beekeeping sectors are important income-generating livelihood activities for smallholder farmers in Fiji and other PIC's that have unrealised potential to grow and develop into innovative high-value agribusiness industries that are inclusive and contribute significantly to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. This project will support the transitioning of these sectors in Fiji through market-oriented development and sector strengthening, by supporting industry associations to become effective agents of industry progress, driving, and facilitating sector development, attaining stronger financial and operational stability post-donor funding. The project will grow partnerships between key industry and government departments for continued industry growth.
Project Objectives
- Strengthen beekeeping and tilapia businesses to service viable and diverse consumer markets
- Develop viable and sustainable industry associations
- Optimise collaborative industry partnerships
Project Partners
- Collaborating institutions: Southern Cross University, Fiji Beekeepers Association, Tilapia Fiji Association, Ministry of Agriculture Fiji, Ministry of Fisheries Fiji, Talanoa Consulting
- Funding: Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR project AGB/2022/113).