To boost sugarcane productivity and support farmers in the northern division, the Ministry of Sugar has provided assistance to 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program.
This initiative offers eligible farmers financial aid covering 30% of lease renewal costs, with a maximum payout of $7,500.
During the grant agreement handover today, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry Charan Jeath Singh highlighted the aim of the program to alleviate financial strain on farmers and to motivate both new and established farmers to increase sugarcane production.
Singh noted that the sugar industry is the most significant sector in the northern division, emphasizing the need for its revival. He stated that the government had developed this program in response to farmers’ concerns about the high premiums for lease renewals.
Additionally, two farmers in Seaqaqa received assistance through the Farm Mechanization Grant for tools like a Cane Planter and Fertilizer Applicator.
The Ministry plans to extend assistance to sugarcane farmers in the western division, with 177 farmers from both the north and west having already benefited from this program.
Seaqaqa farmer Mohammed Janab expressed gratitude for the government’s support, stating that the financial aid has provided significant relief for his family, as the government covered $5,000 of his $15,000 premium.