Like other countries in the Pacific, Nauru deals with debilitating health issues. In fact, Nauru has the highest rates of nutrition-related diseases in the world and a declining life expectancy with type-2 diabetes affecting over 40 percent of the population. Heavy dependence on imported food has resulted in Nauruans moving away from healthier traditional foods. The Government of Nauru has identified the need to promote local food production in order to attain healthy eating habits, food security and sustainable agriculture development for its people.

In support of this initiative, FAO is now preparing to launch the Strengthening Capacity for Nauru Household Integrated Agro-forestry and Food Crops Production project. FAO will provide technical assistance to the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Environment and Department of Agriculture to help implement this project over two years. Total funding for the project amounts to USD$259,000.
Plant Production and Protection Officer for FAO Sub –Regional Office for the Pacific Islands, Mr Viliami Fakava explained. “The project aims to assist household engagement in agro-forestry and encourage the production of selected fruit trees, root crops, vegetables and valued forest species to improve food and nutrition security and sustainable livelihoods for the people of Nauru”.

The project will also contribute to improving the overall soil structure of the island through heavy mulch and the production of organic matter from planting of fruit trees, leguminous plant species and green manure crops. “Growing native trees of traditional significance will also promote income generation through the making and selling of handicrafts and local medicines.” Said Mr Fakava.

Other important outcomes of the project include trained staff and locals in agro-forestry and crops production. It is anticipated that repopulating the island with fruit trees, vegetables and local crops complemented with nutrition education and promotion of good dietary practices will provide a healthy option in combating food and nutrition related non communicable diseases in Nauru.