The head of the Fiji Crops and Livestock Council (FCLC), Jiu Daunivalu, has urgently called for increased government support, warning that insufficient funding could jeopardize the livelihoods of thousands of farmers in Fiji. As the council anticipates receiving only $500,000 in the upcoming budget—far less than the $1.3 million they had requested—Daunivalu expressed her concerns about the future of the agricultural sector and the farmers it serves.
With over 92,000 farmers relying on the council’s support, the proposed budget poses significant challenges in maintaining effective services. Daunivalu emphasized the importance of investment in agriculture: “When you invest resources here, you’ll see the impact— not just in villages and communities, but across the whole country.”
During her address at the recent Innovation and Entrepreneurship Summit, Daunivalu pointed out that discussions around policies are insufficient without a realistic approach to funding and implementation. “It’s time to take farmers seriously,” she stated, advocating for farmer training and improved market connections to transition agricultural efforts from subsistence to commercial levels.
In a supportive response, Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica assured that he would address these concerns with the relevant ministries in search of enhanced assistance for the FCLC.
This situation resonates with broader concerns within Fiji’s agricultural sector, highlighted in previous discussions and reports emphasizing the need for increased financial support and market access. For instance, similar calls have come from industry leaders advocating for a more market-driven approach to stimulate growth, reflecting the collective acknowledgment that agriculture is vital for the nation’s economy.
As the FCLC and governmental stakeholders aim to implement effective strategies and support systems, there is a glimmer of hope that with enhanced collaboration and robust support, Fiji can empower its farmers, ensuring sustainability and resilience in the agricultural landscape. This could lead to strengthened food security and boosted incomes, contributing positively to the nation’s economy.
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