THE Crest Northern Agriculture Show this year has been hailed a success with diverse displays of root crops, vegetables, fruits, handicrafts and livestock in Labasa last week.
The two-day show, which was a build-up to the National Crest Agriculture Show in Lautoka next Monday, attracted about 1000 people from all walks of life.
The participation from relevant government departments, corporate agencies, faith-based groups, schools and women's group complemented the show.
Speaking at the show last week, Agriculture permanent secretary Ropate Ligairi said the objective of the event was to increase awareness on the potential of the agriculture sector in our country.
"The sector has a lot to offer in terms of food security, increasing livelihoods and its contribution to the economy as a whole," Mr Ligairi said.
"This is also an opportunity for students to see and realise that the sector is a career path and it plays an important role in nation building with the richness and abundant supply of natural resources.
"Food security in a different context is as important as national security because it ascertains the nutritional wellbeing of a nation," he said.
Mr Ligairi said the Agriculture Department was obligated to the enhancement of food and income security through the agriculture sector growth.
"We are working towards fulfilling the People's Charter by alleviating poverty and sustaining management of natural resources," he said.
Principal agricultural officer north John Cox said they would organise a bigger and better show next year.
"We will engage more women, children and youths because they also contribute effectively towards the sector," Mr Cox said.
"This show does not only recognise farmers' sheer effort and hard work but also motivate them to continue farming in the bid to reduce the country's import bill.
"We will include more oratory contests, root crop competitions and other events to make the show more active and animated," he said.