Small-scale sugarcane farmers in Ba are urging the government to take immediate action to ensure they receive fair compensation and stronger support. Kelera Lobo, a representative from the Ba District Council of Social Services, has highlighted several challenges faced by farmers, including inconsistent truck rates for cane delivery, unequal pay for cutters, and decreasing yields attributed to aging fields coupled with a lack of technical guidance.
Lobo has called on the Ministry of Sugar to standardize payment rates and increase the frequency of extension officer visits, which would allow farmers to adopt modern, climate-smart agricultural practices. She emphasized the need for a set cane cutter rate, developed through consultation with farmers and worker representatives, to ensure fairness for all parties involved. The issues of low productivity and insufficient technical support remain critical concerns.
In response to these issues, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh acknowledged the challenges faced by the farmers and mentioned that the government is currently revising the Master Award to ensure that truck rates adequately cover costs, providing fair compensation. Although he noted that cane cutter pay is generally market-driven, Singh announced a top-up of $3 per ton for manual laborers to better support the workforce.
Singh further underscored the importance of improving productivity, citing his own Labasa farm, which yields 130 tons per hectare, significantly higher than the local average of 47 tons. He has initiated the deployment of new machinery, including cane planters and fertilizer applicators, aimed at boosting yields across the sugarcane industry.
The ongoing dialogue at a recent Fijian Media Association Town Hall reflects a collaborative effort to address these pressing concerns. Singh has encouraged farmers to approach the Fiji Sugar Corporation or directly contact him if they feel unsupported.
Additionally, this situation resonates with the broader sentiments voiced recently regarding inadequate cane payments set at $12.22 per ton, a significant decrease compared to previous years. While the government has assured commitment to support farmers, critics emphasize the need for a guaranteed price structure and additional financial assistance to cope with rising operational costs.
Despite the challenges, there is cautious optimism in the sugarcane sector as the government takes steps to engage with farmers and explore new policies aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity and support. These efforts could potentially lead to a more stable financial future for farmers and improved conditions within Fiji’s sugar industry.
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