A significant number of women involved in sugarcane farming in Fiji are struggling due to a lack of best management practices, resulting in financial losses and disillusionment. The Sugar Research Institute of Fiji (SRIF) has raised concerns about this situation during a recent training event aimed at helping these farmers improve their yields and profitability. Renil Kumar, Head of Crop Management at SRIF, noted that many women are opting out of sugarcane farming because they are not adequately trained in effective farming techniques.

During the training session held in Nawaicoba, Nadi, Kumar emphasized the importance of educating women farmers, who have often been overlooked in agricultural training programs traditionally focused on men. He stated that with the right knowledge and practices, women can significantly improve their yields and find success in farming.

At the training, 27 women were informed about diverse sugarcane varieties, with a particular focus on promoting early maturing varieties that increase sugar production in mills. Kumar stressed the need for proper fertilizer application, advising farmers to avoid overdosing and to conduct soil testing to determine appropriate fertilizer dosages. This approach aims to enhance the understanding and efficiency of women in farming, ultimately helping them avoid wastage.

Similar concerns have been addressed in recent discussions highlighting the essential role of women in Fiji’s sugar industry. Women farmers are increasingly becoming pivotal for the sustainability of the industry, yet they often face additional challenges such as harassment while working on their farms. Initiatives to empower these women through training and support systems are critical for fostering a more equitable and productive agricultural environment.

Past reports underscore that empowering women in agriculture could potentially lead to meaningful changes in the industry, especially as they face unique challenges that impact their ability to participate fully. As outreach and training programs continue, there is a hopeful outlook for the future of women in Fiji’s sugarcane farming, with these initiatives aiming to create a more secure and prosperous farming landscape.

In summary, although challenges exist for women in sugarcane farming, targeted training and support initiatives provide a pathway for improvement and empowerment, offering a promising future for both the farmers and the industry at large.