Importance of historical review of horticulture in Fiji

Abstract

Horticultural production practices and the underlying attitudes to farming are intrinsically linked to the cultural and historic quintessence of the Fijian society. Food was produced within the context of subsistence-based villages and widely distributed throughout the country. In essence, how crops are grown, crop selection, those involved in the production and marketing, and their relationship within the value chain, are a complex and often unpredictable modification of social, cultural and economic considerations. This study presents a historical overview of horticulture in Fiji with the objective of understanding these social and cultural factors, and to assist in the appropriate design of programmes to improve sustainable production practices. Looking to the future, much of the challenges and opportunities facing the agriculture sector in Fiji remain unresolved. The emergence of global challenges such as climate change provide added complexity. Considering these factors, there is a fundamental underlying need for Fijian agriculture to be increasingly responsive to consumer and market needs in terms of produce quality, consistency and sustainable production systems.