MORDI Tonga and South Sea Orchid continue partnering to boost national floriculture in training exchange.

15 Dec MORDI Tonga and South Sea Orchid continue partnering to boost national floriculture in training exchange.

2023/10/30 – Two dedicated employees from the Ministry of Rural Development and Innovation (MORDI) Tonga embarked on an enriching training expedition at the South Sea Orchids in Nadi, Fiji. This immersive training program, hosted by South Sea Orchids, aims to bolster the flourishing floriculture sector in Tonga, empower women in sustainable livelihoods, and enhance agro-tourism capabilities.

Over the course of one week, these MORDI Tonga employees had the privilege of receiving hands-on training, mentored by the esteemed Manager, Mr. Stephen Henry, and the visionary Founder, Ms. Aileen Burness of South Sea Orchids. The training program provided essential insights and skills that will significantly contribute to the ongoing efforts to strengthen the floriculture sector in Tonga.

The two employees gained invaluable experience and knowledge during their time at South Sea Orchids. This training will empower them to continue their work in Tonga, advancing the floriculture sector and providing sustainable livelihoods for women in rural communities.

As part of the training, the participants visited South Sea Orchids’ partners and interacted with key stakeholders, including women’s groups from the Qoroipita settlement and the Tadra Florist. These visits fostered a deeper understanding of the collaboration and community-building efforts that underpin the success of floriculture initiatives.

Furthermore, the employees had the unique opportunity to engage with South Sea Orchids’ agro-tourism initiatives, which included hosting cruise ship tours. This experience provided valuable insights into the planning and execution of agro-tourism tours, offering a potential avenue for Tonga to showcase its floral heritage and horticultural expertise to a broader audience.

This collaborative endeavor is a testament to the commitment of both MORDI Tonga and South Sea Orchids in empowering rural women and uplifting the floriculture sector. By strengthening partnerships and facilitating knowledge exchange, the program seeks to create a positive and sustainable impact in Tonga’s rural communities.

MORDI Tonga is grateful for the support and expertise provided by South Sea Orchids through its PIFON affiliates as well as the Farmer Organization for Africa Caribbean and the Pacific (FO4CAP); and looks forward to applying the acquired knowledge to further benefit the people of Tonga. This initiative exemplifies the dedication to cultivating a brighter future for the nation through the growth of floriculture and the empowerment of women in rural areas.