Close to 50 small-holder farmers were trained last week in organic agriculture and agroecology at the Mahuleva Organic Learning Farm Centre in Tongatapu, Tonga. The two training sessions under the Pacific Organic Learning Farms Network (POLFN) Project aimed to familiarise small-holder farmers with both the concept and implementation of organic agriculture and agroecology and will offer support for the conversion of their farms to implementing organic practices.

Tonga In-Country Coordinator, Mr Drew Havea shared some challenges that farmers face in Tonga and is hopeful this series of trainings will bring a change in mindset with small-holder farmers.

“Many farmers face the challenge of weed management, thus prompting their reliance on chemical solutions. So, we’re glad that this training in organic farming offers a vital platform to promote sustainable agriculture,” he said.

The dedicated farmers were introduced to a distinct set of organic agricultural concepts and methodologies through an integrated approach, involving both classroom instruction and practical experience in farm fields in Mahuleva, Tonga. These farmers applied to the POLFN Project and were selected from across Tongatapu.

Farmer participant, Melesila Weilert said, “This training is bringing together a diverse group of participants coming from different communities with varied challenges and solutions. By learning from each other, we’re discovering how to collaborate effectively to also achieve our individual and community agricultural plans contributing to national objectives.” Weilert is the Chairperson of the Fo’i Tuluta Social Environment and Economic Development (SEED) and has been farming organic vegetables for more than a decade in Tonga.

Small-holder farmers in Vava’u island will also benefit from similar organic and agroecological farming training at the Ovava Organic Learning Farm Centre, scheduled to begin their training at the end of July 2024.

The POLFN project is implemented at the Pacific Community (SPC) through the Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community. POLFN aims to benefit a total of 100 farmers residing in Tongatapu and Vava’u in Tonga. The POLFN Project is funded by the Kiwa Initiative and is dedicated to establishing a network of organic farms that exemplifies nature-based solutions such as agroecology, agroforestry, and various innovative organic production methods and technologies.

About POETCom

The Pacific Organic and Ethical Trade Community (POETCom) is a not-for-profit organisation with active members, farmer associations, farmer support organisations, NGOs, the private sector, research institutions and works with governments across the Pacific Island region. POETCom is hosted by the Land Resources Division (LRD) of the Pacific Community (SPC) in Suva, Fiji.

Queries regarding this training can be sent to Communications Assistant-POETCom, Vilimaina Tamata: vilimainat@spc.int