The Orchardist | February 2022

Page 46

YOUR INDUSTRY

The funds raised through the Hepatitis B campaign is helping to train health workers in Vanuatu to recognise signs of the disease

RSE employers give back to the Vanuatu community through Hepatitis B campaign For over a decade, workers from the Pacific have travelled to New Zealand to assist with harvest and pruning through the horticulture and viticulture industries’ world-leading Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. Mike Chapman As more and more Ni-Vanuatu RSE workers arrive in New Zealand to support the horticulture and viticulture industries at such a critical time, we are reminded of the huge contribution they make. These seasonal workers have enabled the growth and increased productivity for many crops and wine grapes here in New Zealand, particularly throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.

44

The ORCHARDIST : FEBRUARY 2022

The importance of supporting these workers and their Ni-Vanuatu (Ni-Van) communities has been recognised by Ni-Van employers, who are giving back through a campaign aimed at combatting the debilitating disease, Hepatitis B. Known as the ‘silent killer’, the Hepatitis B virus hides undetected by the immune system, attacking and damaging the liver until it is too late to treat. It is a chronic health issue in Vanuatu, affecting up to 15 percent


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.
The Orchardist | February 2022 by Horticulture New Zealand - Issuu