Minister for Agriculture, Waterways and Sugar Industry, Tomasi Tunabuna, has announced that his team is currently conducting assessments of sugarcane farms and other agricultural crops that have been impacted by recent flooding. In an interview with The Fiji Times in Lautoka, Mr. Tunabuna emphasized the need for prompt action, explaining that the assessment process is already underway and must be completed within a limited timeframe.
“Our assessments are typically procedural,” he stated. “We focus on determining the extent of the damage and evaluating the potential for recovery.” The ministry is prioritizing the evaluation of both sugar and non-sugar crop damage as part of this crucial exercise.
Mr. Tunabuna confirmed that the assessment teams began their work two days ago and are actively compiling reports. Once these reports are finalized, the ministry will identify the necessary types of assistance needed to support affected farmers.
In his remarks, he highlighted the urgency of helping farmers recover or sell their crops for immediate financial relief. While some areas may require swift action, others may necessitate a more measured approach, depending on specific needs. For longer-term recovery, he noted that improvements in weather conditions would play a vital role.
The dedication of the ministry to aid farmers during this challenging time reflects a commitment to not only addressing immediate needs but also fostering resilience in the agricultural sector for the future.
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