Vanuatu’s poultry sector gains focus through ‘One Country One Priority Product’ Initiative

October 20, 2024 10:12 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Nicholas Mwai.

The One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative, developed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), aims to promote the sustainable development of Special Agricultural Products (SAPS) worldwide.

Launched in September 2021, this initiative seeks to optimise production, processing, storage, and marketing of SAPS while minimising environmental and social impacts. Currently, it includes 87 member countries across all five FAO regions, with eight participating countries in the Pacific: Vanuatu, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga.

In the Pacific region, Vanuatu has chosen to focus on poultry, particularly chicken, a decision rooted in its economic viability and cultural significance. Products promoted under the OCOP initiative include poultry from Vanuatu and Nauru, cocoa from Samoa, and turmeric from Fiji, among others.

During the recent OCOP launch meeting held in Nanjing, the capital of Jiangsu Province, stakeholders gathered to discuss strategies for developing their chosen priority products.

The meeting, hosted by the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS) in collaboration with representatives from the Solomon Islands, provided a platform for sharing experiences and exploring future collaboration.

Cultural and economic significance of poultry in Vanuatu

Mr. Charles Tari, a livestock expert and Principal Livestock officer in Vanuatu’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Forestry, Fisheries and Biosecurity (MALFFB), shed light on the rationale behind Vanuatu’s selection of chicken as its priority product.

“Vanuatu chose chicken because it is economically viable across the islands,” he said. “Approximately 80% of the population raise chickens, and it holds cultural significance, we use it in various functions and special events, including traditional dances.”

Mr. Tari emphasised that chicken farming is particularly suitable for Vanuatu’s diverse population.

“Compared to other livestock, chickens require less space, allowing people with small plots of land to raise them and earn income,” he said.

“The simplicity of chicken farming means that even the elderly, youth, and those with disabilities can participate.”

He pointed out the advantages of local chicken breeds: “Our local chickens are resilient to climate challenges compared to imported breeds.

“They adapt better to the conditions we face, and their meat is more nutritious and flavourful than that of imported chickens.”

Insights from the OCOP launch event

During the launch event, Vice Governor Yan Zhao of Jiangsu Province emphasised the importance of cooperation in agricultural development, stating, “Strengthening ties between Jiangsu Province and Pacific Island countries is vital, the OCOP initiative will play a key role in promoting sustainable development, food security, and poverty reduction.”

He expressed hope that the partnership would lead to shared knowledge and resources, enabling Pacific nations like Vanuatu to enhance their agricultural capacities.

Mr. Yi Zhongyi, President of the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS), also spoke at the event, underscoring the importance of agricultural development for alleviating poverty and enhancing food security. He noted, “The agricultural industry satisfies the consumption needs of the people while also increasing farmers’ income. Agriculture is not just production; it is also a commercial activity.”

Mr. Yi highlighted JAAS’s commitment to collaborating with Pacific Island nations to enhance agricultural technology and innovation.

He pointed out that previous interactions with Vanuatu’s Prime Minister had sparked interest in JAAS’s research on vegetable crops, indicating a strong potential for future projects that enhance agricultural practices.

Challenges faced by chicken farmers

Despite its potential, the poultry sector in Vanuatu faces significant challenges.

Mr. Tari pointed out that access to financial resources is a primary hurdle for farmers. “Farmers need funding to start their businesses and grow them sustainably.

Additionally, natural disasters, like cyclones, pose a significant threat, as they can devastate infrastructure and disrupt farming activities.”

He elaborated on the logistical difficulties due to Vanuatu’s geography, noting, “With 83 islands, market access is an issue. For example, a farmer in TORBA Province may struggle to ship their chicken products to markets due to the high costs of transportation and inadequate infrastructure.”

Insights gained from the OCOP initiative

During the OCOP meetings, Mr. Tari gained valuable insights that could help address these challenges. “I learned about improving facilities and infrastructure for farmers.

“Implementing solar systems on farms could help keep products fresh until they reach market.

“Moreover, partnerships with donor organizations like FAO could provide the necessary financial support for our projects.”

Mr. Tari emphasised the importance of collaboration among farmers to enhance local chicken production.

“Our local chickens are healthier and safer to consume compared to imported products. It’s essential for us to invest in the local chicken business as we work towards exporting our products in the future.”

The OCOP initiative represents a significant milestone in Vanuatu’s agricultural development strategy, providing a pathway for sustainable growth in the poultry sector.

With the renewed partnership between FAO and JAAS, there are hopes that resources will be allocated to support OCOP projects in the Pacific region, bringing together agricultural experts and enterprises to share experiences in SAP development.