Future for bamboo in Fiji bright

Fourteen individuals graduated with certificates in bamboo crafting and furniture training at the forestry training centre today.

The joint effort by the Integrated Human Resource Development Programme (IHRDP), Indonesian Embassy and the Forestry Department will allow villagers of Nawaqabena in Naitasiri to successfully venture into the bamboo craft trade.

Indonesian Ambassador Mr Chandra Salim said the bamboo training usually took three to six months, however, Nawaqabena villagers completed it in two months.

“A training centre is important. With further training the focus can be more on skills, which will help participants produce finer crafts,” Mr Salim said.

IHRDP Central Division manager, Mr Kasiruiro Taukeinikoro said the initiative eventuated when villagers approached Commissioner Central for assistance because they did not have water or electricity in their village.

“The villagers selected participants themselves and two women were also trained in bamboo craft,” Mr Taukeinikoro said.

“IHRDP assisted villagers with a funding of $60,000, which will be in phases. The handing over of certificates is the end of the first phase of the bamboo training project and we are building a workshop with equipments at Nawaqabena Village, which will be completed soon.”

There are also plans to market bamboo craft products to resorts and hotels.

On displays were crafts like bamboo beds, light stands, tables, baskets and accessories.

The assistance by IHRDP is to address the Millennium Development Goal of reducing poverty.

ENDS

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