Welcoming New Leadership at PIFON and Honouring Dedicated Service

18 Dec Welcoming New Leadership at PIFON and Honouring Dedicated Service

MORDI Tonga Trust warmly congratulates Ms. Aileen Burness on her appointment as the new Chairlady of the Pacific Islands Farmers Organisation Network (PIFON), and extends heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Minoru Nishi as he concludes his term as Chairman.

Congratulations to Chairlady Aileen Burness

Ms. Aileen Burness brings to the role a strong record of leadership, innovation, and commitment to Pacific agriculture. As a respected agribusiness leader and Managing Director of South Sea Orchids, Aileen has consistently championed sustainable farming practices, market access, and opportunities for women and smallholder farmers. Her work has demonstrated how agriculture, when supported by strong leadership and inclusive approaches, can be a powerful driver of economic growth and community wellbeing.

Aileen’s appointment comes at an important time for PIFON, as farmer organisations across the Pacific continue to navigate climate change, market pressures, and the need for stronger regional collaboration. Her practical experience, regional outlook, and passion for empowering farmers place her in an excellent position to guide PIFON forward. We are confident that under her leadership, PIFON will continue to strengthen farmer voices, foster innovation, and support resilient and sustainable agricultural systems across the Pacific.

Honouring Outgoing Chairman Minoru Nishi

We also pay tribute to Mr. Minoru Nishi for his dedicated service and leadership as outgoing Chairman of PIFON. Throughout his tenure, Minoru provided steady guidance and a clear vision for strengthening regional cooperation among farmer organisations. Drawing on his extensive experience in agribusiness and regional trade, he helped position PIFON as a trusted platform for advocacy, collaboration, and knowledge sharing.

Under his leadership, PIFON continued to advance its mission of supporting smallholder farmers and rural communities, ensuring their perspectives were represented in regional discussions and development efforts. His commitment and contribution have laid a strong foundation for the organisation’s future growth and impact.

Looking Ahead

As PIFON enters this new chapter, we acknowledge both the continuity and renewal that strong leadership brings. We congratulate Chairlady Aileen Burness and wish her every success in her new role, and we thank Chairman Minoru Nishi for his valuable service and lasting contributions. MORDI Tonga Trust looks forward to continuing to work closely with PIFON in advancing resilient, inclusive, and farmer-led development across the Pacific.