Farming under Fire: Are Land Rights at Risk?

The General Secretary of the National Farmers Union, Mahendra Chaudhry, has asserted that absentee farmers, much like absentee landlords, hold legal rights that need to be honored. He emphasizes that cane farmers and tenants of both native and State land are increasingly worried about the security of their leases under the current Rabuka Coalition government due to seemingly irresponsible remarks made by authorities.

Chaudhry highlights concerning reports from tenants whose valid leases are allegedly being threatened by the iTaukei Land Trust Board (iTLTB) and the Lands Department, undermining their right to tenure renewal. He argues that such hostile attitudes toward agricultural leases are detrimental to the overall growth of the sector.

In the context of this heightened concern for agricultural stability, past reports indicate a broader issue with the management of agricultural leases, especially within the framework of iTaukei land governance. For instance, the iTLTB has faced criticism for the way lease rents and premiums are set, as many landowners claim that they have been deprived of fair compensation, citing a significant loss of income since the last review of land values in 2011—an issue that has reportedly cost landowners millions.

Despite claims that high rental fees contribute to the exodus of farmers from the industry, investigations reveal that multiple factors are at play, including low productivity, high operational costs, and increasingly inefficient agricultural practices. Notably, moving forward, there is a pressing need for dialogue among all stakeholders involved in the agricultural sector to foster collaboration, address these systemic inefficiencies, and develop equitable solutions benefiting both farmers and landowners.

The situation reflects a complex interaction between lease agreements and agricultural sustainability, pointing to a hopeful outlook where constructive discussions could lead to reforms that not only stabilize the rights of farmers but also enhance the agricultural landscape in Fiji. Such measures could pave the way for a revitalized commitment to agricultural viability and food security, benefiting local communities and farmers alike.