Inmates at the Nasinu Prison have gone back to the land as part of the Yellow Ribbon programme. 

They are focusing on agriculture and shown how they are able to assist the economy regardless of the view of people in their different societies. 

The agriculture project is currently being carried out on 67 acres of land which shows inmates farming techniques - not only on land but also fish farming and broiler farming. 

“When the inmates are released, they will have ideas on how they can support themselves and their families,” said Officer in Charge Harry Nath. 

“The boys can put their time to good use by using the knowledge they have learnt here rather than mixing around with their peers and falling under their spells,” Mr Nath said. 

He said inmates were provided with two horses to assist them with the ploughing of the field. 

“The horses with ploughing materials cost $3000 compared to buying tractor or bullocks which would be twice the amount,” Mr Nath said. 

Mr Nath said horses are not only to assist them in their work but also to teach the inmates responsibility and the importance of keeping resources given to them. 

“This project teaches them to be responsible and also that through hard work they are able to achieve great things,” said Mr Nath. 

He added inmates also learnt that even in difficult times, there are no excuses since readily available resources could be put to good use to create developments. 

Inmate, Peni Kunatuba said inmates would get to know and see the effective and useful outcome of the agriculture project. 

“After being released, finding employment is something they will find difficult so they can use these ideas to earn income to help assist their families,” said Mr Kunatuba. 

Mr Nath said the project was a starting point and planned to go commercial. 

“It’s a preparation point and work is processing and the idea to go commercial is a way of giving back to the economy,” said Mr Nath. 

Source: Sainiana Druavesi
Fiji Sun