The Kaupule o Niutao has successfully secured $25,000 in funding from the Tuvalu Survival Fund (TSF) to implement its new agriculture initiative titled “Tau Fatoaga Mo Tou Ataeao” (Home Gardens for Our Future).
During the competitive call, the Kaupule submitted 5 project proposals, with the agriculture initiative selected for funding—an achievement that highlights the island’s commitment to strengthening food security and community resilience.
The approved project will run for two years, focusing on promoting home gardening practices across Niutao. Through training, provision of tools and seedlings, and community engagement activities, the initiative aims to increase household access to fresh produce, reduce reliance on imported foods, and encourage sustainable land use.
Our Project Details
A. Community Competitions to Encourage Participation
As part of its implementation, the project will introduce a series of community competitions designed to motivate households to actively participate in home gardening. These include:
- Garden Crop Competition – focusing on household vegetable and crop gardens.
- Vaipulaka Long‑Term Competition – featuring Te Pela and Vaipulaka Sameni categories in dalo and pulaka plantations.
Interested participants will be invited to register with the Kaupule once registration opens, selecting the category they wish to enter. Winners for each category will be determined at the end of every competition round and will receive prizes in recognition of their hard work, creativity, and commitment to improving household food production.
Photo credit: Niutao Museum Blog
B. Target Beneficiaries
The project aims to engage 30–50 households across Niutao, including men and women of all age groups, with a particular focus on youth and women. By empowering families to grow their own food, the initiative supports healthier lifestyles and strengthens community resilience.
Project Management and Oversight
A dedicated Project Management and Monitoring Team will oversee implementation. The team will include:
- Kaupule Members
- Kaupule Agriculture Extension Officer
- Assistant Agriculture Field Officer
- Kaupule Finance Officer
- Youth Representatives
- Women’s Group Representative
- Community Leaders
This inclusive structure ensures strong community ownership, transparent financial management, and effective monitoring throughout the project’s two‑year duration.
The initiative aligns closely with Tuvalu’s National Priorities on food security, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods, as well as the Niutao Island Strategic Plan (ISP). Community leaders have welcomed the funding as a timely investment in Niutao’s future—one that empowers families, strengthens local food systems, and supports long‑term wellbeing.