The Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, Vatimi Rayalu, has promised rice farmers in Dreketi, Macuata, that all drainage issues will be effectively addressed. He announced the appointment of a drainage board specifically to tackle these challenges and encouraged farmers in Vanua Levu to make use of this opportunity by visiting the drainage board office in Labasa.
Seventy-five-year-old farmer Ram Khewal expressed his gratitude to the government for the drainage improvements made at Laqere in Tabia, Labasa. He noted that over 50 percent of the works have been completed and welcomed the ministry’s efforts.
Khewal, who is also the president of the Laqere Tabia Farmers Cooperative, urged the government to build a seawall at their location to protect rice farms from damage. He highlighted that heavy rains each year result in the loss of approximately 30 acres of rice fields, which severely affects local farmers and food security.
“We have been requesting a seawall for at least four years now, but nothing has been done by the government or the Ministry of Waterways,” he stated. Khewal plans to apply for the rice planting subsidy but believes more actions are necessary to boost rice production.
He suggested that there should be more consultations and discussions that allow farmers to connect with the relevant authorities and government to address drainage issues collaboratively.
In addition, drainage work has also been performed in Soasoa, Labasa, an area that experiences frequent flooding during heavy rainfall.