The Ministry of Agriculture is encouraging farmers to form cluster groups in an effort to grow more agricultural products in the country.
Clustering helps improve supply of agricultural produce, sharing of knowledge and experience and better bargaining power and access to markets for farmers.
The Minister for Agriculture Inia Seruiratu says through the formation of clusters, farmers can proactively plan their production in cooperation with the big consolidators servicing high value markets, manage quality and consolidate product supply.
Principal Agriculture Officer North Paula Tuione says training is also provided for the cluster groups on farm management principles and sustainable farming practices.
Currently, there are rice, cocoa, yaqona, dalo and vanilla cluster groups in the Northern Division.
