The livestock industry in the Northern division is earmarked to become the hub for the sector in the country.

Minister for Agriculture Dr. Mahendra Reddy says they will continue to stimulate the growth of the livestock sector and will promote for increased beef, sheep and goat farming in Vanua Levu.

Dr. Reddy says for that they will give farmers the start-up material for fencing and paddock.

He adds after the first start-up assistance, they want farmers to expand on their own through investment from their farm.

He says after the Ministry sees that production is increasing and farmers have shown interest in livestock farming – they will establish abattoir’s from Bua to Wainikoro.

The Minister has assured farmers that they no longer have to worry about the markets and transportation as it will be picked from their farm gate.

Dr. Reddy has elaborated that the project would commence later in the year or early next year.