Coconut craft a hit with customers in Fji

[Stacey King]

FIJTIMES ONLINE Serafina Silaitoga
Friday, May 03, 2013

THE demand for handicraft items made from coconut trees on Taveuni have prompted a plea for women in rural areas to make use of their coconut plantations for income-generating purposes.

The products which are made by students at the Department of Agriculture's Wholenut Processing Centre is becoming popular among expatriates, hoteliers and residents.

Head of training at the centre Susana Yalikanacea said women in villages could earn money from making use of the coconut trees that grow abundantly in villages.

"After seeing the demand for our handicraft items, I have encouraged our mostly women students from rural areas to go back and ensure they teach other women what they've learnt. It will benefit women and their families as well," Mrs Yalikanacea said.