To boost sugarcane productivity and assist farmers in the northern division, the Ministry of Sugar provided support to 22 farmers in Labasa and 36 in Seaqaqa through the New Farmers and Lease Renewal Program. This program offers eligible farmers financial assistance covering 30% of lease renewal costs, up to a maximum of $7,500.
Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Charan Jeath Singh, emphasized that the initiative is designed to alleviate financial pressures on farmers and to promote increased sugarcane production among both new and existing growers. He highlighted the significance of the sugar industry as the largest sector in the northern division, which is in need of revitalization, especially after farmers expressed concerns regarding high premium costs for lease renewals.
Additionally, two farmers from Seaqaqa received assistance through the Farm Mechanization Grant, which included a cane planter and fertilizer applicator. The Ministry plans to extend this support to sugarcane farmers in the western division as well. So far, a total of 177 sugarcane farmers from the northern and western divisions have benefited from this program.
Mohammed Janab, a sugarcane farmer from Seaqaqa, expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts, noting that the financial aid provided significant relief for him and his family, as the government covered $5,000 of his $15,000 premium.