Fiji's Ministry of Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry has launched Starlink internet services at Wainikoro Station in Macuata to improve support for remote farming communities.

Key points:

• The Starlink installation will give officers access to online reporting systems, agricultural research, weather information, technical support and training resources
• The launch forms part of the ministry's work to modernise operations and ensure officers in remote and rural areas have the digital tools needed to support Fiji's agricultural sector

The station is staffed by three ministry officers who provide extension and advisory services to farmers across the tikinas of Nadogo, Dogotuki, Namuka, Udu and Cikobia.

The Starlink installation, valued at $11,322, will give officers access to online reporting systems, agricultural research, weather information, technical support and training resources in real time.

Fiji's Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry Tomasi Tunabuna said the launch was about improving communication and service delivery.

"Today is more than just the installation of an internet connection," he said.

"It is a significant step forward in strengthening service delivery, improving communication, and creating better opportunities for our officers and the farming communities we serve."

Mr Tunabuna said the new connectivity would improve collaboration between ministry offices and help officers provide more timely support to farmers.

"Our officers will now have faster access to information, online resources, reporting systems, weather updates, agricultural research, training opportunities and communication platforms that are critical to modern agricultural services," he said.

The launch forms part of the ministry's work to modernise its operations and ensure officers in remote and rural areas have access to digital tools needed to support Fiji's agricultural sector.

Mr Tunabuna also handed over the keys to the station's official vehicle, which will be used by officers to visit farms, monitor agricultural activities and provide extension services.

The vehicle is expected to improve mobility and strengthen support for farming communities across the station's service area.

Mr Tunabuna said farmers played a vital role in food security, economic growth and national development.

"Agriculture remains the backbone of many families and communities," he said.

"Success in agriculture is achieved through partnership, collaboration and mutual commitment."