A total of 104 smallholder farmers from around the country have benefited from a grant of $140,000 given by the Ministry of Agriculture.

Eleven smallholder farmers received fencing materials last week in Rakiraki through the program which is earmarked to benefit 134 smallholder farmers in total, with the remaining 30 assistance packages to be handed out to selected smallholder farmers soon.

While officiating at the handing over ceremony, Minister for Agriculture Dr. Mahendra Reddy said the Ministry re-evaluated its assistance practice to ensure only commercial oriented farmers received support.

Reddy informed grant recipients to use the assistance to develop their paddocks and ensure they steadily grow their herd to reach commercial levels.

He also acknowledged the farmers for their dedication and the effort they are showing in trying to meet the demand of the local and international market.

He adds that the Ministry’s role was to support the advancement of farmers towards self-sustaining models and commercial operations.