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Bua, Fiji – WCS has handed over essential kuta (freshwater reed) cultivating and harvesting equipment to the women of Bua village, marking a significant step towards supporting community livelihoods while ensuring the sustainable use of kuta.

WCS-Fiji's Livelihoods Officer, Isoa Koroiwaqa (front right) is handing over the harvesting equipment to the Women of Bua.

Maraia Bibi, the 65-year-old Chair Lady of the Yasi Boi Yawa Women’s Cooperative, expressed gratitude for the initiative. The cooperative is the first women’s group in the village to register as a cooperative, signifying progress in women's empowerment and economic independence.

Maraia Bibi, 65 Chairwoman of the Yasi Boi Yawa Women's Cooperative.

The Kuta plant has a deep cultural significance to the community. The initiative by WCS aims to introduce sustainable farming methods while offering a new income-generating opportunity for women in the village.

Kuta Equipment.

“I am grateful for the awareness by WCS for bringing to light some ideas in which kuta can be farmed and commercialized as a source of income generation for us women in this village,” said Bibi. However, she also emphasized the need for diversification, stating, “I hope this does not end here; I hope that this women’s group finds alternative sources of livelihood and does not rely heavily on kuta, ensuring we do not run out of it as it holds cultural significance to us.”

Kuta readily made by the women of Bua. 

The equipment will not only aid in the cultivation and harvesting process but also empower the women of Bua to take control of their economic futures. “This is a step forward where we women feel like we can stand on our own and make decisions, something that is not always the case in Fijian society where men traditionally make such decisions,” said Bibi.

The initiative has brought the women of Bua together, but Bibi also hopes it will extend further to engage the youth in kuta farming and conservation efforts.

Following the donation to Bua village, a second set of equipment was also handed over to the village of Navunievu. This initiative is part of the CAPA Project, which aims to promote sustainable use of natural resources while strengthening local livelihoods.

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