A significant investment of $3.8 million has been dedicated to rehabilitating homes affected by termite infestations in the Western and Central Divisions. The Termite Taskforce, co-chaired by Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister’s Office Sakiasi Tubuna, reported that this funding has been utilized for a total of 775 houses, with 448 applications approved in the last fiscal year and 327 in the current financial year.
In an effort to combat termite issues, the government is also expanding its termite baiting program beyond the current locations of Ba, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and Nakasi. The program has engaged Flick Hygiene Pte Ltd, which will provide baiting systems for 1,000 households to eliminate existing termite colonies through strategically placed bait stations in high-risk areas.
Applications for termite baiting services are being processed on a first-come, first-served basis, as highlighted by Taskforce co-chair and Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Sashi Kiran. She noted that the success of this baiting initiative could allow for the inclusion of more communities in the program. Kiran emphasized the importance of community involvement, urging residents to register their properties with the Taskforce or the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji to take advantage of the baiting service.
Flick Hygiene executive director Mohammed Zakariah confirmed that the Ministry of Agriculture has approved the mass distribution of bait to hardware stores nationwide, with each bait priced between $30 and $40. This positive step forward not only addresses immediate termite infestations but also ensures that the community is better prepared to protect their homes.
Overall, this initiative demonstrates a proactive approach to tackling an ongoing issue, fostering community involvement, and enhancing the resilience of homes against termite damage, thereby reducing the risk of property collapse. It highlights the collaborative efforts of government and private sectors aimed at improving living conditions for residents in affected areas.
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