The Agricultural Marketing Authority (AMA) is under increasing scrutiny for its struggle to purchase produce from rural farmers, despite government initiatives promoting greater agricultural production. Executive Chair Jone Sovalawa acknowledged that limited storage capacity and a shrinking budget have hampered the authority’s ability to buy and distribute surplus goods. Currently, AMA operates with a budget of $2.5 million, which is less than half of what it received in previous years.
During a recent session with the Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Sovalawa expressed frustration about the high expectations of farmers in Fiji, stating that many are reaching out to inquire if the AMA can buy their produce. However, the authority’s limited capacity to store and process fresh goods, compounded by the lack of online purchasing options, poses significant challenges to fulfilling these requests. Sovalawa emphasized the need for immediate collaboration with various ministries to address these infrastructural and financial limitations.
In response to critiques regarding financial management, the AMA has been making strides to improve its operations. Previous articles highlighted that the authority’s financial struggles stemmed from outdated practices and manual processes leading to important documentation being lost or poorly managed. The AMA is shifting towards modern accounting practices to enhance efficiency and accountability within its operations, ultimately aiming to better support local farmers.
While the AMA currently faces challenges, the proactive measures being undertaken could pave the way for future improvements and sustainability within the agricultural sector. By focusing on collaboration and infrastructure enhancements, the AMA holds the potential to create a more resilient agricultural environment in Fiji, benefiting both producers and consumers alike.
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