The Cabinet has officially approved the expansion of the termite baiting initiative aimed at providing assistance to low-income households. As part of this program, funding will be allocated to target homes with an annual income below $30,000 located in the Western and Northern divisions of Fiji, including residents of squatter settlements in designated red zones.
The Asia Subterranean Termite (AST) infestation has been primarily concentrated in areas such as Ba, Lautoka, Nadi, Labasa, and their vicinities, with severe damage reported in these regions. The Cabinet emphasized that the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji will oversee the implementation and monitoring of the baiting program. This expansion represents a key element of the government’s broader strategy to not only combat termite infestations but also to address the various challenges they pose to affected communities.
The Prime Minister’s Office will lead the initiative, collaborating closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji. Termites have impacted Fiji for over 15 years, causing considerable harm to properties, particularly in regions that have been significantly hit, like Lautoka, Nadi, and Labasa. Notably, the pest management company Flick Hygiene, which has recently secured a government contract, will initiate the baiting process in Lautoka, with a focus on 1,000 homes already identified by Biosecurity Fiji.
This expanded termite baiting program reflects the government’s commitment to improving the living conditions of its citizens and tackling the challenges posed by pest infestations, showing a proactive approach in safeguarding homes and communities.
In conclusion, the initiative carries a positive outlook for households suffering from termite damage, fostering hope for improved living situations and protecting the integrity of homes across Fiji’s affected regions.
Leave a comment